It’s believed there are uncertainties surrounding Rio Ferdinand’s contract with TNT Sports, as the former Manchester United and England defender’s deal is due to expire at the end of the season.
Ferdinand, 46, has been a fixture with the broadcaster since its inception as BT Sport in 2013. However, rumors suggest he might be considering exploring opportunities abroad instead of signing a new contract to continue his role in TNT Sports’ coverage of the Premier League and Champions League.
As reported by the Daily Mail, Ferdinand’s management company has formed a partnership with William Morris Endeavor, a well-known American talent agency. It’s claimed the Americans are focused on securing opportunities for Ferdinand in the United States.
A move to the U.S. would make sense, especially with the 2026 World Cup set to take place across the USA, Canada, and Mexico next year. Losing Ferdinand would be a significant loss for TNT, who broadcast Premier League games and cover European soccer throughout the season after securing the respective rights deals.
Ferdinand continues to be a key figure in TNT’s coverage and is also a regular contributor for the BBC during international tournaments. Given his experience both on and off the pitch, he would likely have no shortage of opportunities in the U.S. leading up to next year’s World Cup.
He’s joining forces with WME, an agency boasting a glittering array of talent such as Ryan Reynolds, Jessica Alba, and Maggie Gyllenhaal, not to mention a slew of top NBA players within its sports roster.
(Image: Getty Images)
Though he’s most often linked with his United days, Ferdinand’s illustrious playing career also saw him turning out for West Ham, Leeds, and QPR before he drew his professional journey to a close in 2015.
Last year, in a candid chat with GQ, Ferdinand shared that he’s always cautious about keeping it professional now that he analyzes the game from the studio, mindful of how certain comments impacted him during his days on the pitch.
“The simple guideline I have for myself is to say what you see, be honest and never, ever be personal,” the ex-defender remarked. “And always remember what it was like when you played and people were talking about you.”
