Clare Balding is replacing Sue Barker as the BBC’s lead Wimbledon host.

Clare Balding is replacing Sue Barker as the BBC’s lead Wimbledon host

Clare Balding is replacing Sue Barker as the BBC’s lead Wimbledon host

The sports pundit, 52, will take over this summer from the 66-year-old former ‘A Question of Sport’ presenter –  who has led coverage of the tennis tournament since 1993 - when it starts in July.

She said after the news was officially confirmed by the BBC on Thursday (09.03.23): "It's a huge honour to be given this responsibility but I am very aware that no one person can fill Sue's shoes.

"This will always be a team effort and we're lucky that the BBC line-up includes former professionals with huge insight as well as wonderful reporters and commentators.

"It's my job to bring out the best in them and to help make our viewers feel they have a front-row seat on the greatest sporting stage."

The BBC’s director of sport Barbara Slater said she was looking forward to seeing Clare share her “passion and knowledge for the prestigious event“.

Sue – who won the 1976 French Open and reached No 3 in the world as a player before making the switch to broadcasting – last summer said she felt the “time is right” to step down after three decades in the Wimbledon presenting role.

Former cricketer Isa Guha, 37, was said to be in the running to become lead Wimbledon host, but will still have a major role in the 2023 coverage after becoming part of the BBC team last summer.

She will present coverage from the start of play before Clare takes over for the primetime afternoon and evening sessions.

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