Garry Richardson announces retirement as Sports presenter on Today programme after half a century at the BBC

After an incredible 43-year career presenting sports news on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Garry Richardson has announced that he will be stepping down this autumn. His last day on air will be 9 September, exactly 50 years since he first joined the BBC as a junior researcher in 1974.

Garry Richardson has become a familiar voice to millions of listeners, providing the latest headlines and stories from the world of sports with wisdom, insight, and a smile. Over the years, he has interviewed a wide range of personalities from sports, showbusiness, and politics, including former U.S President Bill Clinton, Nelson Mandela, Muhammad Ali, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Reflecting on his time at the BBC, Garry Richardson expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside his heroes and bring the latest sporting news to audiences. While he will no longer be setting his alarm for the early hours of the morning, he plans to continue broadcasting from time to time.

BBC Director-General Tim Davie praised Garry as a legendary presenter who has set the standard for sports broadcasting. Owenna Griffiths, Editor of Today, described Garry as a familiar part of her morning routine and expressed how much he will be missed by both colleagues and listeners.

As Garry Richardson prepares to bid farewell to the Today programme, his colleagues at BBC Sport and across the BBC are grateful for his passion, warmth, and dedication to delivering top-notch sports news. His legacy as a respected broadcaster and interviewer will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the world of sports journalism.