ITV Bullseye's Freddie Flintoff quits job after two years and releases statement
· Mathew Davies · 2026-08-08 · nguồn gốc
ITV Bullseye star Freddie Flintoff quits other job after two years as he releases statement
Flintoff has decided to step away from his role ahead of taking up a new opportunity
Freddie Flintoff has stepped down from his position with England Lions criket team.
Flintoff began the role of head coach back in September 2024 and after nearly two years in the job he's decided to call time.
In June, it was confirmed the former all-rounder would become head coach of Sydney Thunder in Australia's Big Bash League.
In recent years Flintoff has stepped in front of the camera, holding down roles with BBC's Top Gear and more recently hosting ITV's relaunch of their family sports show Bullseye.
He said on Instagram: "Unfortunately I’ve made the decision to step away from my role with the Lions.
"Not only have I enjoyed my time having the opportunity to work with the best young cricketers in the country, but have taken great pride in seeing them develop.
"I’d like to thank the coaches and staff for all their passion, tireless work and support they give everyday.
"In particular Ed Barney who I’ve loved working with and was so lucky to have as a performance director, and obviously Rob (Key) for trusting me with one of the most important roles in English cricket.
"I can’t wait to get started with the Thunder later in the year and see where coaching takes me.
"Good luck to whoever takes over - you have some big pants to fill."
Barney, ECB men's performance director, said: "Fred has helped to transform the Lions environment into a programme that has had a major impact on young players. By creating an environment that both supports and pushes excellence at all times he has helped bring forward a new generation of young players.
"Coaches have also flourished alongside him, whether early in their coaching journey or with decades of experience, and he has consistently maximised the expertise around the group. We wish him the best in the next stage of his coaching career and look forward to a time he returns to the English game."
Forty-eight-year-old Flintoff took some time away from the spotlight following the horrific car crash that occurred while filming for Top Gear.
Back in 2022 the sportsman suffered devastating injuries which resulted in a £9million payout from BBC Studios. The show was shelved shortly after the incident at Dunsfold Aerodrome, Surrey.
He is set to front a new ITV documentary about people with Tourette's later this year.
Speaking about his documentary, Flintoff said: “Working with young people has always been a huge passion point for me, and Tourette’s is a condition that primarily starts in childhood.
“The thought of kids isolating themselves and facing such strong stigma both breaks my heart and resonates deeply with me – after my accident, I wouldn’t leave my own house and that’s a feeling I would never want anyone, let alone a kid, to go through.
“If there is any way I can help those affected, working directly with them and experts in the field, and also help spread awareness and push for change, then that is what I’ll do.
“I hope this community will bring the change and understanding they deserve.”
Bullseye, which Flintoff fronts alongside darts sensation Luke Littler, is set to return for a second series in 2027, with a Christmas special also booked in.
Flintoff said of the renewal: "It’s great that Bullseye still has a special place in the nation’s heart, as it does mine, and I loved bringing it back on TV screens. I can’t wait to see what a new season brings."