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Sport

25th Jul 2018

Eamon Dunphy has left RTÉ with immediate effect

Alan Loughnane

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Showbiz baby…

Eamon Dunphy has left RTÉ with immediate effect and will instead concentrate on other projects.

Dunphy has appeared regularly on RTÉ Sport’s soccer coverage since the 1980s and has become one of the most recognisable figures in Irish soccer during his four decades with the broadcaster.

He revealed that the decision to step away from RTÉ was made before the World Cup and he informed them of his decision before Russia 2018 in order to concentrate more time and effort into his podcast.

Upon his departure, Dunphy paid tribute to the friends he made during his time with broadcaster and wished them all the best for the future.

In a brief statement Dunphy said:

“Two years ago, I decided not to renew my contract with RTÉ Sport. At the time, they prevailed upon me to stay and, in fact, offered me a rise, a small one, to do so.

“However, before the World Cup I told them this time, I would be leaving. I intend to focus on my podcast The Stand which is flourishing and has had over 2.3 million listens since we started. That’s where my energy will now be devoted.

“In my 40 years with RTÉ, I made many good friends and I wish them the very best for the future.”

Declan McBennett, Head of Sport, RTÉ said: ‘We would like to thank Eamon for the immense contribution he has made to our sporting coverage across four decades.

“He was there for every key moment throughout that time as we were gripped by the exploits of our international side in particular.

“His insight and analysis informed, enthralled and entertained a nation. Eamon has now decided to pursue other avenues and we wish him every success in those ventures.”