Ray Warren has commented on his last rugby league game, with the veteran announcer announcing his immediate retirement from football.
The 78-year-old will not comment on this year’s State of Origin series, ending months of speculation about his future.
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Warren signed a five-year contract with Channel 9 in 2017, which runs until the end of the 2022 season, but has not appeared in the comment box this season.
“After talking to my family and calling the rugby league and other sports for 55 years, I have decided that my time on the comment box is over,” Warren said in a statement.
“I’m really looking forward to it, but I think it’s time to move on with my 80th birthday in just 12 months.
“I really want to thank everyone. All my co-workers on Channel 9, Channel 10, Radio 2GB and where I started on Radio 2LF in Young, who gave a young Junee the opportunity to turn their dreams hopefully my story will bring some inspiration to the lives of other young children in the country.
“In the game, the NRL and the players, to give me the privilege of naming such a great product. And finally, the spectators, to allow me to share some time in your living rooms from the beginning of the seventies ”.
Warren will continue to work at Wide World of Sports.
Known as the “voice of the rugby league”, Warren has hosted 99 home games, 45 Grand Finals and three Melbourne Cups, and has established itself as one of Australia’s major broadcasters throughout of a decorated commentary career spanning 55 years.
He was inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame in 2019.
“The great Ray Warren is synonymous with Nine and the rugby league for fans, players and, above all, everyone here at the Wide World of Sports,” Nine CEO Mike Sneesby said in a statement.
“We are very happy that he is still an integral part of the team and we thank him for his five decades of calling live sports.
“We look forward to your ideas, memories and character on our next week’s broadcast for Origin I and beyond. It brought the game to life for generations of fans in its halls. You are the voice of the rugby league, Rabs. Thanks.”
Ray Warren has retired. James Gourley / Getty ImagesFont Photo: Getty Images
Warren met with Nine sporting director Brent Williams last week to discuss his future, but no firm decision was made.
“From the Olympics to the Melbourne Cups, the best moments in the NRL and everything in between, Ray Warren has been the voice of sport for generations of Australians. His passion and enthusiasm for his job is contagious and positively affects those who are fortunate enough to work alongside him, “Williams said in a statement.
“It simply elevates others and elevates emissions to higher levels. While the incredible commentary chapter of his career is coming to an end, we’re thrilled that Rabs continues to play a full role in our Wide World productions. of Sports, including the upcoming State of Origin series “.
Mat Thompson is expected to take on the game-by-game calling features for Origin I, which will begin next Wednesday at 8:10 p.m.