Southgate Declines 2026 World Cup TV Role as England Opens Campaign Against Croatia
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 14
Southgate Declines 2026 World Cup TV Role as England Opens Campaign Against Croatia
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 14
Summary
Gareth Southgate said he rejected World Cup punditry work to avoid comments being misconstrued or used against England during the tournament.
The 55-year-old former manager said he wanted to "keep out of the way" after attending the last seven World Cups in roles including player, broadcaster, scout and coach.
Southgate resigned after England lost the Euro 2024 final to Spain, ending an eight-year spell in which he led 102 games and reached two European Championship finals plus the 2018 World Cup semi-final.
England begin their 2026 World Cup campaign against Croatia in Arlington on Wednesday, with Southgate saying the squad is "ready to win" after overcoming hurdles such as penalty shootouts and semi-finals.