Gabby Logan forced to leave Match of the Day after sudden tragic death: ‘Our hearts are broken’

Gabby Logan Leaves Match of the Day Due to Family Emergency

By Abby Allen | January 8, 2026

Gabby Logan, a well-known BBC presenter, had to leave Wednesday’s Match of the Day just 20 minutes into the show because of a family emergency. The 52-year-old was hosting the Premier League highlights when she had to step away, leaving her colleague Mark Chapman to take over.

“We’ll discuss that game in a moment, but sadly, Gabby had to rush off due to a family emergency,” Mark explained to viewers. “She’s gone to handle that, and I’ve come from the radio to finish the show.”

It was later announced on Thursday that Gabby’s father, Terry Yorath, a former Welsh footballer and manager, had passed away at the age of 75.

Terry Yorath’s Family Statement

The news was shared on social media. The Match of the Day account posted: “Leeds and Wales legend Terry Yorath has passed away, aged 75. The BBC sends its condolences to all the family, including his daughter Gabby Logan.”

In a statement released by Gabby and her siblings, they said: “To most, he was a revered footballing hero, but to us, he was Dad; a quiet, kind, and gentle man. Our hearts are broken, but we find comfort knowing that he is now reunited with our brother, Daniel.”

Gabby’s brother Daniel passed away at the age of 15 due to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a genetic heart condition. He was playing football in the garden with his father at the time.

Tributes for Terry Yorath

Terry, who was born in Cardiff, earned 59 caps for the Welsh national team and played for clubs including Leeds United, Coventry City, Tottenham Hotspur, Vancouver Whitecaps, Bradford City, and Swansea City.

Leeds United shared their condolences on social media: “Everyone at Leeds United is devastated to learn of the passing of club legend Terry Yorath. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Terry’s family, friends, and former teammates at this incredibly sad time. Rest in peace, Terry.”

For more information, visit the Leeds United official page.

Other clubs and organizations also paid their respects, including FA Wales, Tottenham Hotspur, Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, and Huddersfield Town.