Alex Scott has officially ended her tenure as a lead presenter for Disney+ during its coverage of the Uefa Women’s Champions League. The former Arsenal and England defender, who turned 42 this past Wednesday, is stepping away from the streaming platform to dedicate her time to other professional endeavors, most notably her recently launched production company, First Cap Productions Limited. Scott, who turned 42 on Wednesday, told the Observer, this month: “I feel like there’s always an excuse about women’s football shows not working because of the viewership or needing to save money.
Through this new venture, Scott has introduced the show One More Word, which focuses on the Women’s Super League and features former teammates Anita Asante and Fara Williams. The project was conceived in direct response to the cancellation of the BBC’s weekly highlights program for the league. Scott has expressed a strong belief that women’s football programming can succeed if provided with innovative formats and proper execution, rather than being dismissed due to budget constraints or viewership concerns. They can work, if things are given a fresh idea or a fresh format, they can work.”, whereas I think if they are done right.
Scott had served as the face of the Disney+ European club competition coverage since the broadcaster acquired the exclusive five-year rights in 2025. Her departure follows a challenging start to the current season, during which the broadcaster faced significant criticism regarding production standards. Technical failures marred the opening round of fixtures, including a notable incident during Arsenal’s 1-0 victory over HB Køge, where a three-minute unscheduled commercial break interrupted the match broadcast. Including an unscheduled advert break that interrupted the second half of Arsenal’s 1-0 win, disney’s production levels were criticised after the opening round of fixtures this season after a series of technical problems.
Addressing the criticism of the network’s editorial direction in a recent interview, Scott emphasized that she frequently advocated for changes behind the scenes. She remarked that while she disagreed with certain production decisions, she could only influence matters to a certain extent, maintaining that she always aimed to support the best interests of women’s sports. Despite her exit, sources indicate that her professional relationship with Disney remains positive, and her representatives confirmed she is appreciative of the opportunities she had with the team. “But nobody sees the conversations, the fights I have behind the scenes. But I can hold my head up and know that I’ve always tried my best for the greater good of women’s sport.”.
A spokesperson for Disney+ expressed gratitude for her contributions, highlighting her passion for the game throughout her time with the network. While Scott departs, the Disney+ broadcasting team—produced by ESPN—is set to continue with presenters such as Shebahn Aherne, Nedum Onuoha, and Lianne Sanderson, alongside commentators Vicki Sparks and Jacqui Oatley. The competition is scheduled to resume on 28 October.
Beyond this role, Scott remains a prominent figure in broadcasting, having hosted the BBC’s Football Focus for five seasons before its conclusion earlier this year. Her portfolio also includes high-profile assignments such as covering the 2020 Olympics and appearances on major entertainment programs including Strictly Come Dancing and I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!.
