Was Rio Ferdinand dropped by the BBC? This has been a frequently asked question in recent days after the 44-year-old was absent during World Cup coverage.
The BBC opted for Ashley Williams over the Manchester United icon in the opening game of the tournament between Qatar and Ecuador, with the Daily Mail citing his involvement in Saudi Arabia as the reason behind that decision.
So, was Ferdinand dropped by the BBC? Let’s take a look…
Was Rio Ferdinand dropped by the BBC?
Well, the BBC have been forced to issue an official statement on the matter following the Daily Mail‘s story.
They have described the claim as “categorically untrue” in that statement, with the BBC adding that it was “important to represent the home nations within the opening show” at the World Cup, explaining why they opted for the Welshman Williams.
Many had questioned whether the BBC dropped Ferdinand in fear of being described as hypocritcs.
The BBC showed a montage detailing the human rights issues in Qatar ahead of the opening game, although the same problems exist in Saudi Arabia, their Middle East neighbours.
Ferdinand has a close association with Saudi Arabia, and was previously a guest of the Ministry of Investment in the country last year to promote investment opportunities within the kingdom.
It remains to be seen if the man who won 81 caps for England will return to BBC duty for this Sunday’s World Cup final between Argentina and France.
Nevertheless, Ferdinand is certainly eligible to appear alongside the likes of Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer, after the BBC strongly denied claims that they have dropped him.
Rio Ferdinand profile
Full name: Rio Gavin Ferdinand
Age: 44
Height: 1.89 m (6 ft 2 in)
Nationality: England
Place of birth: Camberwell
Date of birth: 7th November 1978
Net worth: £61m
Clubs played for: West Ham United, AFC Bournemouth, Leeds United, Manchester United, Queens Park Rangers
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