Former England defender and BBC pundit Micah Richards has announced the death of his father, Lincoln Richards, just moments before he went on air to cover England's FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final against Argentina.
A devastating loss ahead of a personal broadcast
Richards, who was part of the BBC One studio team for the Three Lions' 2-1 defeat in Atlanta, shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram, revealing that his father had passed away unexpectedly.
"Not long before going on air today, I received the awful news that my father Lincoln had passed away," wrote Richards. "His death was unexpected, and he has left us all too soon."
Father and biggest fan
The 38-year-old, who earned 13 caps for England during a playing career that included spells at Manchester City, Aston Villa, and Fiorentina, described his father as his "greatest fan" and a constant presence throughout his life.
"He barely missed a game my entire life," Richards added. "He would take me wherever I needed to go when I was a kid and he was the proudest parent possible during my professional career. It was so rare for him to not be by my side."
Despite the devastating news, Richards chose to honor his commitment to the BBC's coverage, believing it was what his father would have wanted.
"I know, particularly as a proud old-school Yorkshireman, dad would've wanted the show to go on this evening. And so it did."
He concluded his tribute: "Thinking of my siblings and all my wider family today as we remember my father Lincoln, my hero and inspiration."
