Does Scott's Disney+ exit unmask wider issue in coverage of women's game?

What the report says

Alex Scott has stepped away from Disney+’s coverage of the Women’s Champions League after only two rounds of the competition, prompting discussion about the broader difficulties broadcasters face when presenting women’s football. BBC Sport reports that Disney+ is in the second year of a five-year rights deal and had introduced new formats this season, including a watchalong programme with Scott sharing presenting duties with Shebahn Aherne. The service has also faced criticism for technical problems and an unscheduled advert break during Arsenal’s match against HB Koge.

Scott has not given a public reason for leaving the role, but told BBC Sport she was grateful for the opportunity and hoped to work with Disney+ again. The article places her exit within a fast-changing media landscape, where broadcasters are experimenting with style, tone and format to attract different viewers as interest in women’s football continues to grow.

The report also notes wider changes at other broadcasters. The BBC has said its Women’s Super League highlights programme will not return for the 2026-27 season, while pointing to new digital-first coverage on YouTube, BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport website. Journalist Carrie Dunn argues that broadcasters are still trying to work out who their audience is, and how to balance context for newer fans with coverage that does not alienate long-time viewers.

Several managers interviewed by BBC Sport generally welcomed innovation, while stressing that reliable match coverage remains essential. The piece suggests Scott’s departure is less about one presenter alone and more about the ongoing challenge of building sustainable, high-quality coverage for the women’s game.