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BBC Sport commentator Ian Robertson to retire

BBC Sport commentator Ian Robertson to retire

Former Scotland fly-half and legendary BBC radio commentator Ian Robertson has announced he is to retire at the end of this year, after 46 years as a sports commentator for the beeb.

“I remember my first ever broadcast for the BBC was actually reading out the horse racing results – that’s where everyone started – and I’ve had the privilege of covering every single Rugby World Cup since. It’s hard to choose my favourite moment as a broadcaster for the BBC as there have been so many highlights from over the years. From Scotland’s 1984 and 1990 Grand Slams, to Jonny Wilkinson’s 2003 World Cup-winning dropped goal, to interviewing Nelson Mandela in 1992 at a reception where press were banned – I’ve loved every minute of it. – Ian Robertson

The announcement comes during the Six Nations Rugby Championship which is Ian’s last time behind a mic for European rugby’s showpiece tournament. His final commentary for the BBC will be during the Autumn Internationals later this year. On Saturday the 24th of February, Ian will commentate on Scotland v England in the Six Nations game for Radio 5 live at Murrayfield – exactly 50 years after he made his international debut on the same ground and in the same fixture in the 1968 championship.

He joined the BBC in 1972, and since April 1983 he has been the broadcaster’s official rugby union correspondent – his voice became synonymous with the sport for fans everywhere. Ian also won two gold awards at the Radio Academy Awards including Speech Broadcaster of the Year in 2004.

“The Autumn Internationals will be my last international commentaries – which I’m really excited to be covering as New Zealand haven’t played England at Twickenham for four years so it will be a great clash featuring the top two teams in world rugby. The fourth and final Autumn test will be England v Australia so it would be nice to go out on a repeat result of the 2003 England World Cup Final for my last commentary! It will be the perfect time to say thanks and farewell to a wonderful 50 years in rugby.” – Ian Robertson

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