Inside Sport newsletter: Get an expert guide to the biggest moments shaping the world of sportGet our free Inside Sport newsletterGet our free Inside Sport newsletterAlex Scott has revealed her reaction after the cancellation of Football Focus. The presenter admitted feeling “so much anxiety and dread” over the expected “toxic” social media backlash, despite feeling the time was right for the programme to end.The BBC announced on Thursday that the Saturday lunchtime staple, first broadcast in 1974, would cease, attributing the decision to “changing audience behaviours.” Its traditional 12.45pm slot will be replaced by The Football Interview from next season.Despite the show’s departure, BBC head of sport, Alex Kay-Jelski, confirmed that regular presenter Scott, 41, would “remain at the heart” of the corporation’s sports output, including its coverage of next year’s Women’s World Cup in Brazil.Scott, while taking great pride in the impact Football Focus had over the years, ultimately understood the decision, recognising how audiences now access sport across diverse platforms.“To have been part of this show has been incredibly special,” Scott said in a video post on Instagram.“I am so grateful and proud of the eight years that I have been involved, including the five years I have had the honour of presenting it.“It has been such an important part of my life. I have got to work with some of the very best people in the business, both on screen and behind the scenes.Scott said she understood the BBC’s decision (Naomi Baker/Getty Images)“I have loved so much of it – the conversations, the laughter and sharing so many big moments with you, the audience, so thank you for being part of it.Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 dayNew subscribers only. £9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled.Try for freeADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 dayNew subscribers only. £9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled.Try for freeADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.“I always knew that this would be my last season on the show, which the BBC were aware of also. My intention was to move quietly into the next chapter, but here we are.“Sometimes things change, but when this show began all those years ago, social…
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2026-04-23 19:19:00
