Mark Chapman makes cheeky joke throughout first MOTD look after being introduced as host
While most football fans would have tuned in to have a laugh at Spurs’ sorry Emirates showing, it was the heir to the MOTD hot seat who started off with a joke
Mark Chapman, who makes up one third of the new Match of the Day hosting trio brought in to replace Gary Lineker at the start of next season, had fellow co-host Micah Richards and Alan Shearer in hysterics as he kicked off his usual role as the midweek Match of the Day presenter with a gag.
After the opening credits had rolled, Chapman looked at the camera and quipped, “Thought I’d get the practice in,” sarcastically referencing his long-standing role on Match of the Day 2 and handful of appearances on the main show, to which Premier League all-time top scorer Shearer teased, “Haven’t wasted any time, have you?”
he BBC has announced that Chapman, Gabby Logan, and Kelly Cates will share presenting duties for Match of the Day, including Match of the Day 2 and the upcoming Match of the Day Champions League. It’s the first time multiple presenters will jointly lead the iconic programme.
The change follows Lineker’s decision to step down after 26 years at the helm. While he will no longer host Match of the Day, he will remain part of the BBC’s coverage of the men’s FA Cup and the 2026 World Cup.
BBC Sport’s Director Alex Kay-Jelski expressed excitement about the new lineup, saying: “I know viewers will love these three incredible broadcasters at the heart of our football coverage. They’re brilliant at what they do, and fans can expect expert analysis of all the big talking points.”
Cates, who will also continue her work with Sky Sports, said: “Sitting in that chair with the iconic theme music will be an incredible moment. I’ve worked with many of the pundits before, and I’m just looking forward to getting started.”
Logan and Chapman, who bring years of experience across radio and TV, shared their enthusiasm about the collaborative approach.
“This isn’t just about us,” Chapman noted. “It’s about the entire team—pundits, analysts, editors, and production staff—working together to deliver comprehensive football coverage for fans.”
The new presenting trio will take the reins from the 2025/26 season, ushering in a fresh era for Match of the Day.
