Jeff Stelling announces he will leave Sky Sports and Soccer Saturday - when is his final show?

Jeff Stelling has announced that he will be leaving Sky Sports after more than 25 years.

The presenter will be departing from the broadcaster and its flagship Soccer Saturday show at the end of the season. His final show programme will be in May.

Stelling confirmed he was leaving Sky Sports on Saturday, 29 April. Speaking directly to the audience he confirmed his final Soccer Saturday will be on 28 May.

Jeff Stelling announces his departure from Sky

Speaking ahead of the 3pm kick-offs on Saturday, the 68-year-old said: “It’s that time of year every year when I announce I am leaving Sky Sports and Soccer Saturday but this time it is true.

“Thirty fantastic years on Sky, you lot out there (fans) have supported me marvellously – as have Sky – but it’s time to give you a break from all the VAR rants, bag gags and the over the top celebrations when Hartlepool score and give someone else the chance to do this fantastic job.

“I’ve been at Sky for more than 30 years and loved every moment of my time as part of the Soccer Saturday team.”

“He will be sorely missed”

Stelling, who joined Sky in 1992, previously said in October 2021 he would quit the programme at the end of that season but ultimately confirmed he would stay on.

Sky Sports Director of Football Gary Hughes told Sky Sports: “After a brilliant 30+ year career at Sky, including over 25 years as the much-loved host of Soccer Saturday, Jeff Stelling is leaving Sky Sports at the end of the current football season. He will be sorely missed. Sky Sports will give him the great send off his remarkable and enduring contribution deserves before he leaves us at the end of May to spend more Saturdays with his beloved Hartlepool United.”

More to follow.