George Hamilton announces sensational exit from RTÉ Sport after 40 years

George Hamilton has revealed he has left RTÉ after 40 years, as his contract with the national broadcaster has expired.

The legendary broadcaster has also revealed that he is set to start working with Premier Sports.

Speaking to the Irish Independent, Mr Hamilton said: ‘My contract with RTÉ Sport has expired and my involvement with RTÉ now is with Lyric FM. I was in Germany for Euro 2024 and that was my last involvement for RTÉ Sport.’

Mr Hamilton said he will continue to present his RTÉ Lyric FM programme, the Hamilton Scores. Airing on Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 1pm, the show features a line-up of musical guests and tales from his travels.

Initially beginning his commentary career with BBC Sport, Mr Hamilton joined RTÉ in 1984, going on to become the most recognisable voice associated with the Irish international football team.

Most famously, Hamilton is synonymous with the Republic of Ireland’s 1990 World Cup second round penalty shootout victory against Romania.

‘The nation holds its breath’, was the phrase coined by George Hamilton as David O’Leary stepped up to slot home the winning penalty.

On top of his international football duties, which also saw him follow seven Ireland managers, Mr Hamilton travelled all over Europe to commentate on Champions Leagues games.

Despite leaving his post of four decades, Mr Hamilton is not saying goodbye to football as he will be joining Premier Sports in the coming weeks.

Mr Hamilton will be commentating Man United’s upcoming Europa League game against Dutch team FC Twente on Wednesday September 25, on the channel who have exclusive live rights to 53 Premier League games in the Republic of Ireland.

He said: ‘I’m a bit like the footballer; the contract runs out and then you go and you get something else, and I’m very happy to have a new chapter in the whole scheme of things.

‘I didn’t want to stop doing commentary, because I enjoy it still, and I still think I have a contribution to make, and I’m delighted that Premier Sports think so too.

‘My involvement with RTÉ Sport hadn’t been as extensive as it once was, things had changed considerably at RTÉ Sport, and the time came to look around and see what else is there, and that’s what I’ve done,’ Mr Hamilton said.

Extra.ie have contacted both RTÉ for a statement on the matter.

George Hamilton: A life in pictures