ITV’s Line-up for Women’s Euros Coverage Sees Eni Aluko Return as Ian Wright Exits
ITV has unveiled its punditry roster for its coverage of the upcoming Women’s European Championship, confirming former Lioness Eni Aluko as part of its team while fan favourite Ian Wright will not be featuring for the broadcaster this summer. The decision marks a notable change in ITV’s approach to their major tournament coverage and has drawn attention due to recent public discussions involving the two former England internationals.
Eni Aluko, who has become one of the most recognisable voices in football broadcasting, will be returning to the ITV panel following her absence during England’s emphatic 5-0 triumph over Portugal in May. Her reinstatement comes after a period of controversy, with previous remarks she made about opportunities for women in football media sparking debate and public criticism.
The issue stems from an interview Aluko gave earlier this year on BBC Radio Four’s Woman’s Hour. During the segment, Aluko argued that there were still significant barriers for women seeking careers in football broadcasting, especially within the women’s game, which she described as both fledgling and limited in opportunities. Aluko stressed the importance of ensuring women are not impeded by male counterparts when it comes to securing roles in these highly competitive spaces.
Her comments, which specifically referred to Ian Wright, a well-known supporter of women’s football, were met with controversy. Aluko had indicated that prominent men in the sport needed to be conscious of the limited nature of these chances, and be proactive in creating a path for women. This perspective, while widely echoed by advocates for greater diversity, was received with mixed reactions. Some took it as a necessary call to action; others viewed it as unfairly targeting Wright, who has been an outspoken ally for the women’s game.
Following the backlash, Aluko issued a public apology to Wright via social media, where she clarified her comments. She described Wright as a “brilliant broadcaster and role model” whose support for the women’s game was “significant”. Aluko emphasised that her intention was to highlight the broader challenges women face in football, not to single out individuals, stating: “It was wrong for Ian’s name to be raised in that conversation, and for that I sincerely apologise. I’ve known and worked with Ian for many years and have nothing but love and respect for him.”
Wright, however, expressed his disappointment in Aluko’s remarks, referencing both their previous professional relationship and his support of her work. In an Instagram post, Wright acknowledged the apology but said he was unable to accept it, adding that he was ready to move on from the incident.
Rumours have inevitably swirled regarding Wright’s absence from ITV’s Euro 2025 line-up, particularly in light of the tension between the two pundits. However, sources close to ITV suggest that Wright’s omission is unrelated to the spat. Instead, it appears to be more a matter of strategic programming, as broadcasters regularly rotate punditry teams to refresh coverage and broaden representation.
ITV have, for their part, continued to praise Wright’s contributions both on and off screen, with a spokesperson describing him as “an incredible advocate and ally, and a brilliant broadcaster of women’s football.” Wright’s visible role during England’s qualification campaign and their journey to the 2023 World Cup Final had only bolstered his standing with fans of the women’s game.
The decision to bring back Aluko, meanwhile, has sparked its own set of opinions within the football community. Supporters argue that having high-profile former players like Aluko, who has played at the top level for England and has extensive experience in broadcasting, is essential for increasing visibility and authority within the women’s football media landscape.
As England’s Lionesses prepare to defend their European crown, attention will undoubtedly be on both the squad and how the tournament is presented to viewers at home. The make-up of pundit panels continues to be a source of discussion – often reflecting wider conversations around diversity, opportunity and representation in sport.
With the Women’s Euros set to capture audiences once more, ITV’s coverage, and its choice of pundits, is poised to be watched as closely as the matches themselves. However, the principal narrative remains the growth of the women’s game, both on the pitch and in the studio, as broadcasters and players alike strive to move the sport forward.