AFL commentary line-up shuffles at Seven and Nine
An AFL legend has announced he is leaving Seven after three decades on air, while another footballer is joining Nine’s AFL team for 2025.
Melbourne sports anchor, Tim Watson, announced his retirement from during Monday night’s bulletin.
“I have enjoyed the best job in the world at a network that has been incredibly supportive,” Watson said of his career that commenced in 1994, following his retirement from Essendon.
“Surrounded by dedicated and talented people who work hard every day to produce the best news bulletins, it’s been a privilege and a pleasure to be invited into people’s homes to deliver the sporting news.”
Chris Salter, director of 7NEWS Melbourne said of Watson: “He was a legend on the field, and he leaves Seven as a legend of the media.
“We thank Tim for his professionalism and many years of loyal service. Viewers will miss him, and the newsroom will too.”
Watson will present his final sports bulletin for 7NEWS Melbourne on Friday, 20 December at 6.00pm.
Meanwhile Nine has drafted another AFL icon, James Hird, who will join Nine as a presenter on two marquee programs – Footy Furnace and Footy Classified – the latter of which recently saw the defection of its three hosts to Seven.
In addition to Hird’s arrival, Nine said it will be “making a series of other major announcements regarding our 2025 AFL coverage”, the most heavily rumoured of which is the possible poaching of Nine heavyweight, Eddie McGuire, who was spotted in meetings with Seven news boss, Anthony De Ceglie.
Brent Williams, director of sport for Nine said of Hird: “Off the field, he has always proven to be a polished media performer with a strong opinion and unique insights. James played a huge part in the success of The Footy Show over many years and we’re thrilled to be welcoming him back into the Wide World of Sport and Nine family.”
Hird said he is “incredibly excited to rejoin the 9Network and be part of such a passionate team covering the AFL”
“I am thrilled to bring my perspective to the table on Footy Classified,” he continued.
“With Footy Furnace entering its second year, we’re set to deliver even more hard-hitting insights and conversations that fans won’t want to miss. I can’t wait to get started and dive into what promises to be an unforgettable season.”
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