The world of sports broadcasting is in mourning following the death of John Motson, one of the most iconic and beloved football commentators of all time. Motson, fondly referred to as “Motty” by fans and colleagues alike, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Thursday at the age of 77.
Over the course of his illustrious 50-year career with the BBC, Motson became a household name in the UK and around the world. He covered 10 World Cups, 10 European Championships, and 29 FA Cup finals, bringing his distinctive voice and encyclopedic knowledge of the game to millions of viewers.
Motson was best known for his work on Match of the Day, the BBC’s flagship football highlights show, which he joined in 1971. He remained a fixture of the program for over four decades, providing commentary on some of the most memorable moments in football history.
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News of Motson’s death was met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, colleagues, and players.
Former England striker Gary Lineker described him as “the voice of football” and “a national treasure,” while fellow commentator Clive Tyldesley hailed him as “a giant of the industry” and “an inspiration to us all.”
Motson’s unique style, marked by his distinctive voice, encyclopedic knowledge, and quirky turns of phrase, endeared him to generations of football fans. He was known for his meticulous preparation, often arriving at matches armed with a bulging file of notes and statistics.
Motson’s legacy will endure long after his passing, as fans continue to revisit his iconic calls and relive the moments he made unforgettable. His contributions to the world of sports broadcasting will be sorely missed, but his influence and impact will be felt for generations to come.
