The Champions League final will be Rio Ferdinand’s final appearance as a regular pundit on TNT Sports.

Rio Ferdinand has announced his decision to step away from TNT Sports following the Champions League final, a move that has undoubtedly sent ripples through the sports broadcasting community.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Ferdinand expressed his gratitude for the decade he has spent discussing the beautiful game since hanging up his boots. “It has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sport and TNT Sports,” he stated.

He took a moment to acknowledge the hard work of the behind-the-scenes team, whose efforts often go unnoticed but are crucial to the success of the network. “I want to acknowledge the tremendous support from the team behind the scenes,” he said, highlighting their essential role in the operation.

Looking ahead, Ferdinand noted the excitement surrounding the upcoming season finale. “To everyone at TNT Sports, we have a brilliant end to the season to look forward to on Saturday,” he remarked, adding that he believes the final could be one of the great European showdowns. He also praised TNT Sports for its growth, stating, “The network continues to thrive with more rights than ever, and I look forward to following its progress.”

Ferdinand extended his gratitude to his family and management company, New Era, for their unwavering support throughout his journey. “They have supported me to travel all over Europe, following the best players and watching the best matches – for a football fan like me, it’s been a dream come true,” he reflected.

As he prepares to embark on a new chapter, Ferdinand carries with him a wealth of memories. He expressed enthusiasm for the future, mentioning plans to spend more time with family and focus on his various business interests, including his project, Rio Ferdinand Presents. “I hope to stay connected with all of you in different capacities,” he added.

In response to Ferdinand’s departure, TNT Sports expressed pride in his contributions over the years. “TNT Sports is extremely proud of the work Rio has done as part of our on-air team and across more than 10 years of collaboration,” they stated, wishing him the best as he shifts his focus to personal ventures.

The joint venture between Warner Bros Discovery and BT Sport, which led to the launch of TNT Sports in 2023, has certainly made an impact, and Ferdinand’s departure marks the end of an era for the network.