Jeff Stelling announces he will take an extended break from hosting the talkSPORT breakfast show as listeners in London prepare for his temporary absence

Legendary sports presenter Jeff Stelling has announced that he will be taking a short break from his talkSPORT breakfast show, citing the need for “rest and relaxation.”

Fans of the broadcaster, who made his name on Sky Sports before leaving in 2023, will notice his absence from the 6–10am slot between Monday and Wednesday for the next two to three weeks.

Stelling made the announcement live on air, telling listeners: “We’ve had so many texts today that I’m going to have to take a break, which is what I’m going to do for the next two or three weeks.

I’m just going to chill out for a bit of rest and relaxation. I’ll see you when I’m back.”

He reassured fans that the break was not related to any health issues.

A Career That Keeps Going Strong

Even at 70, Stelling shows no signs of slowing down.

In an interview with Daily Mail Sport a few weeks ago, he expressed his love for presenting and his desire to continue for as long as possible.

“I feel exactly the same as I did when I was in my mid-30s, my mid-40s, my mid-50s. I don’t see any reason to stop. As long as people ask me to do it, I’m going to carry on,” he said.

Known for his quick wit and infectious energy, Stelling also poked fun at critics who call him “out of touch” or a “dinosaur,” adding with a smile, “It doesn’t matter if I’m 70 and you’re 17. Our opinions have got equal merit.”

New Podcast and Broader Horizons

The break comes as Stelling prepares to launch a new podcast in partnership with OLBG, expanding his work beyond sports commentary.

Unlike traditional sports shows that focus heavily on games and statistics, Stelling’s podcast aims to explore the personal lives and stories of sporting figures.

“I’d like to hear their backstory. In this day and age, they’re so managed that we hear their answers about that game, that race, that match, but we don’t necessarily know them as human beings,” he explained.

Early Mornings, Endless Energy

Despite the early starts—his alarm goes off at 4:30am for talkSPORT—Stelling has maintained his legendary enthusiasm.

His dedication mirrors that of fellow veteran broadcaster Alan Brazil, who recently missed two weeks of work due to illness but returned full of energy, joking about the flood of messages checking on his wellbeing.

Stelling’s approach highlights his passion for broadcasting and his commitment to connecting with audiences, not just reporting scores.

His presence on the breakfast show has become a staple for early-morning listeners, making his temporary absence feel significant.

What’s Next?

Fans can look forward to Stelling’s return to talkSPORT in a few weeks, but in the meantime, his new podcast will offer a different side of the presenter.

Expect candid conversations with athletes, personal stories behind the headlines, and a style that blends warmth with Stelling’s signature humor.

Listeners will also have time to appreciate his decades-long career and the energy he brings to every show.

Summary

Jeff Stelling, the iconic broadcaster who left Sky Sports in 2023, will take a two-to-three-week break from his talkSPORT breakfast show for rest and relaxation.

The break is unrelated to health issues, and Stelling remains energetic and enthusiastic about his career.

During this period, he will focus on launching a new podcast that explores the personal stories of sporting figures.

Fans can anticipate his return soon, and in the meantime, enjoy a fresh side of Stelling’s broadcasting talents through the upcoming podcast.