Full statement as Rio Ferdinand leaves TNT Sports

Rio Ferdinand has announced his decision to step down from punditry duties on TNT Sports after Saturday's UEFA Champions League final.

The former Manchester United and England defender has been a pundit on TNT Sports for ten years and has covered both Premier League and European matches.

The decision has been made by Ferdinand himself who is looking to spend more time with his family.

46-year-old Ferdinand is also keen to devote more time to his management firm and other business interests, which have sometimes played second fiddle to his punditry career.

TNT Sports are likely to begin the recruitment process to find a successor to one of their main pundits over the last decade.

Full Rio Ferdinand Statement

Rio Ferdinand announced the news of his departure via the following statement on his official X account.

"After ten incredible years, I have made the difficult decision to step away from TNT Sports after the UEFA Champions League final.

"Since retiring from football, it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade for sports fans watching on BT Sport and TNT Sports.

"I want to acknowledge the tremendous support from the team behind the scenes, whose hard work often goes unseen but has been essential to our success.

"To everyone at TNT Sports, we have a brilliant end to the season to look forward to on Saturday and for now all focus will be on what I think could go down as one of the great European finals.

"The network continues to thrive with more rights than ever, and I look forward to following its progress and the exciting future that lies ahead.

"Lastly, I would like to thank my family and my management company New Era for their ongoing support. 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.

"As I turn the page to the next chapter, I carry with me countless memories. I am excited about what the future holds, spending more time with my family, focusing on Rio Ferdinand Presents & my other business interests. I hope to stay connected with all of you in different capacities.

"Thank you once again for everything."

Matt Gibbs

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