Zlatan Ibrahimovic has confirmed that his brief time as a television pundit is already over after announcing his departure from Fox Sports during the network’s coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The Swedish football icon, who became one of the standout personalities on Fox’s studio panel throughout the tournament, surprised viewers by revealing that the final would also mark the end of his broadcasting journey.
“I’ve been talking a lot the last one-and-a-half months, so this will be my last words,” Ibrahimovic said during the closing moments of the broadcast.
“I want to take this moment, Alexi, thank you. Thierry, thank you. Rebecca, thank you. It has been an absolute pleasure to share this studio with you guys.”
He also thanked the production crew and viewers before signing off with a smile.
“I hope, America, you enjoyed it as much as I did. This was my first and my last. Thank you very much.”
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The 44-year-old shared the studio with Thierry Henry, Alexi Lalas and presenter Rebecca Lowe, quickly becoming a fan favourite thanks to his sharp opinions, dry humour and playful exchanges with his fellow pundits.
His on-air chemistry, particularly with Lalas, produced several viral moments during the tournament, while his blunt analysis divided opinion among viewers.
Fans were quick to react on social media, with many expressing disappointment at the announcement and urging Fox Sports to convince him to return for future tournaments. Others praised Ibrahimovic for bringing the same confidence and charisma to television that defined his playing career.
Fox Sports has the rights to several major international tournaments in the coming years, including Euro 2028, meaning the door remains open if Ibrahimovic ever changes his mind.
However, the former Sweden captain’s farewell suggested he sees his television career as a one-off experience rather than a long-term move.
