Mark Chapman insists there is “absolutely no competition” between himself, Kelly Cates and Gabby Logan after the trio were confirmed as the new hosts of Match of the Day today.

Although the line-up was widely anticipated, there were initially suggestions that Chapman was not keen on sharing the role and wanted it to be a solo gig.

However, the BBC today announced the line-up widely tipped to take over from Gary Lineker, the sole host for the past 25 years, at the start of the next Premier League season in August.

New team for next season! ✍️

We are delighted to announce that Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman and Gabby Logan will share Match of the Day presenting duties from 2025-26.#MOTD #BBCfootball #calicats #MarkChapman #gabylogan pic.twitter.com/r8hU5Owm8b

— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) January 15, 2025

Not just Saturday night duties

In addition to the flagship Saturday night slot, they will also share Match of the Day 2 duties and the Champions League highlights show on Wednesday nights.

Chapman, who has presented MOTD2 as well as numerous shows on BBC 5 Live for many years, said: “There’s something great about the three of us working together for so many years, all at the same age, to have this opportunity. together, as three friends.

“There is no competition between the three of us.

“Kelly and I did a show together 20 years ago and still do a radio show together on 5 Live.

“But I’m excited to work with two presenters who are team players and only want the best for the show, the people who work on it and the viewers.”

#BBCfootball #MOTD pic.twitter.com/9K59gFBCUy

— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) January 15, 2025

Cates retains employment at Sky Sports

Cates, the daughter of former Liverpool player and manager Kenny Dalglish, will retain her role with Sky Sports and take advantage of the new opportunity.

She said: “Once I sit in that chair and the theme music starts, I know it’s going to be a really incredible moment. I’ve worked with a lot of pundits before and they’re all amazing, so I’m looking forward to getting started.

“I’ve known Gabby and Mark well over the years so to bring them all together, embracing the digital side of things, it feels like a really comprehensive football package for the fans and that’s what makes it so attractive.”

Logan added: “It’s always a surreal moment (sitting in the chair) because it has such a history. It’s still very relevant to many people and speaks to a landscape where TV has changed so much.

“There is a huge responsibility to ensure that we continue to develop while respecting the traditions of Match of the Day. People want to see goals, they want to see events, they want to see moments that everyone is talking about, so while we can tinker on the edges, the main thing is football.

Gary has done a phenomenal job – K-Jelski

BBC Sport Director Alex K-Jelski said: “I know viewers will love these three incredible broadcasters and journalists at the heart of our football coverage next season.

“They are brilliant at what they do and MOTD viewers can be sure they will be well looked after as the big football issues are expertly analysed.

“Gary has done a phenomenal job on Match of the Day for the past 25 years, he will be sorely missed and we still enjoy him on our screens at some of football’s greatest tournaments.

“Beyond Match of the Day we have some great new shows, sounds and surprises in audio, video and digital for the 2025-26 season and we look forward to sharing them with you later in the year.

“These are truly exciting times for BBC Sport’s football coverage.”