Former Md Francis To Leave Sky Sports After 20 Years

Barney Francis is to leave Sky after 20 years of service to the group’s Sky Sports output.

Sky announced on its social media channels that the Sky Sports MD – who became CEO of the broadcaster’s Future Sport arm in 2019 – would be standing down in 2020.

Francis joined Sky Sports in 2000, working as executive producer for the channel’s cricket output before moving to its football content. In 2009, he took on the role of MD, Sky Sports, and has seen the broadcaster expand its Premier League rights, as well as bagging the likes of Formula 1 in 2011 before being promoted to the new role less than a year after American media giant Comcast acquired Sky in October 2018.

Sky’s CEO Jeremy Darroch said of Francis’s departure: “During his time at Sky, Barney has transformed Sky Sports, building a world class team and leaving a fantastic legacy. We wish him the very best from us for the future.”

Francis said: “I’ve been privileged to work for this great company for more than two decades. It’s been the stuff of dreams for a guy who grew up as a sports-nut.

“Yet the time is right to move on to new adventures in a changing world. I leave with thanks for the support of all our customers who have enjoyed Sky Sports during my time, and of course my colleagues and friends who I will miss greatly.”