BBC Match of the Day co-hosts Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates are dating following Chapman's split from his former partner Clere Collier earlier this year. The 52-year-old broadcaster reportedly confirmed the relationship after Collier confronted him over suspicions regarding his close dynamic with his television colleague. The revelation brings two of British sports broadcasting's most respected anchors into the headlines as they continue to front the BBC's premier football coverage.
The Confrontation and Chapman's Split from Clere Collier
Chapman had been in a relationship with Collier, a 45-year-old Dubai-based estate agent, since early 2024. The pair had frequently been seen together in Cheshire, with Collier posting public tributes marking Chapman's 51st birthday, referring to him as her "one love" and praising his kindness and dedication.
However, the couple parted ways in April. Friends revealed that Collier subsequently approached Chapman over growing suspicions that he had formed a romantic connection with Cates. According to reports, Chapman admitted that a relationship with Cates had indeed blossomed, but he adamantly maintained that there had been no infidelity or romantic overlap prior to his separation from Collier.
A New Era on Match of the Day
The reported relationship comes during a transformative period for the BBC's football flagship. Following Gary Lineker's decision to step down as lead presenter of the Saturday night programme at the conclusion of the 2024/25 campaign after a 25-year run, the corporation implemented a three-anchor rotation featuring Chapman, Cates, and Gabby Logan.
Chapman had already served as the long-time presenter of Match of the Day 2 and a core voice on BBC Radio 5 Live. Cates, meanwhile, arrived with extensive pedigree as the primary host of Sky Sports' Super Sunday and Friday Night Football, alongside anchoring duties on 5 Live's The Monday Night Club. While Matchwise's AI-driven match analysis tracks the tactical evolutions and xG metrics dissected each weekend on the broadcast, the interpersonal dynamics behind the studio desk have now emerged as an unexpected off-pitch narrative for viewers.
Personal Journeys Away from the Cameras
Both presenters have navigated significant personal challenges outside the broadcast studio. Chapman's wife, Sara, tragically died in June 2020 at the age of 44 following a battle with cancer. The couple had married in 2001 and raised three children together. Chapman took compassionate leave before making an emotional, widely supported return to national broadcasting, earning immense respect from peers and audiences for his professionalism.
Cates, 51, the daughter of Celtic and Liverpool legend Sir Kenny Dalglish, went through her own major life transition after separating from her husband, Tom Cates, in 2021. The former couple, who married in 2007, have two daughters. In subsequent interviews—including appearances on Logan's podcast The Mid Point—Cates spoke candidly about the intimidating prospect of navigating modern dating in midlife after decades in a settled relationship.
Broadcast Continuity for BBC Sport
The news is not expected to cause any operational disruption to BBC Sport's flagship programming. Because the post-Lineker format rotates hosting duties among Chapman, Cates, and Logan, the pair do not typically present the primary Saturday highlights show at the same desk simultaneously.
Both remain under long-term commitments across the BBC's television and audio arms, covering the Premier League, domestic cup tournaments, and international fixtures. With decades of live broadcasting experience between them, colleagues expect their professional output on air to remain entirely seamless.
Are Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates hosting Match of the Day together?
No. Chapman and Cates rotate hosting duties individually alongside Gabby Logan, meaning each presenter fronts the show on alternate weeks rather than sharing studio hosting duties simultaneously.
How long have Mark Chapman and Kelly Cates worked together?
Chapman and Cates have been professional colleagues across BBC Sport and BBC Radio 5 Live for several years, frequently collaborating on live radio coverage and football discussion panels before taking over Match of the Day duties.