**Rio Ferdinand to Leave TNT Sports: Possible Move Abroad and New Career Ventures Loom**
Footballing pundit and Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand is set to step away from his longstanding role at TNT Sports, raising questions about his next steps both professionally and personally. Ferdinand will appear for the final time on the network during Saturday’s Champions League final, bringing to a close a decade-long association with the channel formerly known as BT Sport.
The departure was confirmed by Ferdinand on his social media platforms, where he addressed fans and colleagues alike. He described the decision as “difficult”, attributing it mainly to an increasingly demanding schedule and a wish to invest more time in other pursuits. “Since retiring from football, I’ve had the privilege of analysing the game I love for ten years,” Ferdinand remarked, highlighting the bittersweet nature of the move.
Ferdinand leaves TNT Sports in good spirits and with a sense of pride over his contributions, whilst the network itself enters a new era. Sources indicate that TNT Sports, buoyed by an expanding portfolio of broadcasting rights, is on the lookout for a notable replacement. Industry whispers suggest figures such as Gareth Bale might be considered for the post, following his well-received punditry appearances in recent months.
Looking to the future, Ferdinand is not short on opportunities. Reports emerged earlier this year that TNT Sports had offered to extend his contract, an offer he ultimately declined. Whilst there is speculation he may make occasional guest appearances, Ferdinand is set to focus on his own business interests. He runs the management agency ‘New Era’ and a successful podcast and production company under the ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents’ brand.
Meanwhile, a possible move abroad is also being discussed behind the scenes. The Sun reported that Ferdinand, alongside his wife Kate, is exploring the idea of relocating to Dubai. This comes amid the couple’s search for properties and schools in the emirate. With two children together, and Kate also stepmother to Ferdinand’s three children from his first marriage, the family is reportedly attracted by the prospect of a new start, although there have been no official confirmations of a permanent move. Nonetheless, the couple intend to juggle their growing interests both in the UK and abroad.
As both a pundit and former player, Ferdinand’s outspoken style has at times been a lightning rod for criticism. His honest, and occasionally passionate, commentary has sparked responses from fans—particularly during high-stakes matches or when discussing his beloved Manchester United. When challenged on social media about perceived bias, Ferdinand has been quick to defend his impartiality. Colleagues, including Robbie Savage, have backed him, pointing to the emotive nature of live sport and the authenticity of former players’ reactions.
Nor has Ferdinand shied away from candidly assessing England’s performances on the international stage. During the recent Euros, he insisted that criticism comes with the territory when teams underperform: “In any industry, you don’t expect praise if you’re not hitting the mark,” he stated. Such commentary underscores the delicate balance pundits must strike between honest opinion and fan sensitivities.
Earlier this spring, Ferdinand’s absence from TNT’s Champions League coverage was noticeable after he was suddenly taken ill and hospitalised with a severe virus. The former defender later detailed the dramatic episode, recounting how the illness led to days in hospital and the anxiety of a potential neurological issue. Thankfully, he has since recovered, though the incident was a stark reminder of the pressures and unpredictability that can accompany a busy broadcast career.
For TNT Sports, Ferdinand’s departure comes at a transformative moment. The channel—now with rights to an array of competitions including the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, and an expanded rugby portfolio—continues to position itself as a leading broadcaster of both domestic and European football. The next few months will see the network strategise over how best to fill the gap left by Ferdinand and maintain its appeal to viewers.
As both Ferdinand and TNT Sports move forward, their respective futures seem filled with possibilities. Whether it’s through new media ventures, punditry overseas, or even taking up residence in sunnier climates, Ferdinand’s post-TNT chapter is set to be watched with keen interest by fans of football and broadcasting alike.