Legendary BBC Football Commentator John Motson Dies at 77

Legendary football commentator John Motson has died at the age of 77.

Salford-born Motson - popularly known as 'Motty' - began commentating with the BBC in 1971. During his career, he commentated on over 2000 games on television and radio.

A statement from the BBC confirming his death said: "Motson covered 10 World Cups, 10 European Championships and 29 FA Cup finals for BBC Sport before retiring from the organisation in 2018.

"Popularly known as 'Motty', he had worked on Match of the Day since 1971 and commentated on almost 2,500 televised games."

In 2001, Motson was awarded an OBE for services to sports broadcasting.

His run as a commentator included his record-breaking sixth World Cup final in Berlin in 2006 and his 29th FA Cup final in 2008.

Motson's final game for Match of the Day was a clash between Crystal Palace and West Bromwich Albion in 2018. After the game, he was applauded by the fans on the pitch at Selhurst Park, before the then Palace manager Roy Hodgson presented him with a framed copy of the programme from his first and last matches at the stadium, as well as a crystal microphone.

Tributes poured in on social media for the much-loved broadcaster after the news of his passing.

BBC colleague Guy Mowbray wrote: "In shock. Thank you JM."

BT Sport commentator Darren Fletcher added: "This is such sad news - an iconic commentator with his own distinctive and brilliant style.

The soundtrack to my youth watching football."

Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher said: "RIP John Motson. An absolute Legend of the game. So many of us grew up listening to this man describe the action & goals on MOTD & cup finals. Sad loss."

February 23, 2023