Big changes are happening at Match of the Day as the iconic football show gets ready to relaunch with a fresh team of presenters.
Fans are gearing up for a new era as Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan, and Kelly Cates step into the spotlight together for the first time — and they’re already showing a united front.
The New Faces Taking Over After Gary Lineker’s Emotional Exit
After 26 years of hosting, England football legend Gary Lineker said an emotional goodbye to MOTD back in May.
His departure followed a controversy around an Instagram video and the subsequent anti-Semitism row, which led to much public debate.
Once Lineker’s exit was confirmed, attention quickly turned to his successors.
Back in January, the BBC announced that Chapman, Logan, and Cates would share hosting duties, each bringing their own style and experience to the table.
Now, ahead of the show’s Saturday relaunch, the trio posed for their first official photoshoot, dressed sharp and ready for the job.
Style and Substance at the Photoshoot
Mark Chapman kept it classic with a grey zip-up jacket, crisp white shirt, and dark trousers — practical and polished.
Gabby Logan opted for elegance in a navy blue V-neck dress made from what looked like silk or satin, bringing a touch of sophistication.
Kelly Cates went for a coordinated slate blue blazer and pants, holding a vintage-style leather football in one photo — a cool nod to the beautiful game’s rich history.
Who’s Hosting What and When
Chapman has the honor of kicking off the new MOTD series on Saturday, marking a fresh start for the beloved show.
Meanwhile, Cates will take charge of a UEFA Super Cup highlights program on Wednesday, and Logan will host the Sunday evening edition.
Big Names Joining the Lineup
Chapman won’t be alone on screen. The show will feature returning pundits Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney.
Rooney, a former Manchester United star and experienced manager, has stepped back from coaching after leaving Plymouth Argyle at the end of last year.
He’s embraced punditry, appearing regularly on Amazon Prime Video for Champions League coverage and now as a guest on Match of the Day.
Rooney’s New Role and Salary at the BBC
Rooney’s punditry work comes with a hefty paycheck — reportedly around £800,000 over two years, making him one of the BBC’s highest earners.
Only a handful of stars at the broadcaster, including Shearer with an estimated £440,000 salary, earn over £400,000 annually.
Yet, their paychecks still fall short of what Lineker earned at the BBC — a staggering £1.35 million per year.
A New Name for the Sunday Show
Another interesting update: Match of the Day’s Sunday sister program will drop the ‘2’ from its title starting this weekend.
The rebranded show kicks off alongside the relaunch, signaling a fresh, streamlined look for the whole MOTD family.