'He was my biggest fan' - BBC pundit Richards' father dies
Retold by Oddsrama · 15 July 2026
Micah Richards, the former England defender turned BBC pundit, shared heartbreaking news on social media after going on air to cover England's World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina. Richards' father, Lincoln, passed away unexpectedly just before the Three Lions' 2-1 defeat, but the 38-year-old chose to fulfil his broadcasting duties that evening in honour of his dad's wishes.
Richards, who earned 13 caps for England during his playing career at Manchester City, Aston Villa, and Fiorentina, described his father as his "greatest fan" and "my hero and inspiration." In an emotional tribute posted on Instagram, he revealed that Lincoln rarely missed a match throughout his son's entire professional journey, always there to support him from childhood through to international football. The former right-back emphasised how proud his father had been, noting that his presence at matches and events was a constant source of encouragement.
Knowing the weight that World Cup football carries for families across the country, Richards decided that his father—described as a proud old-school Yorkshireman—would have wanted him to continue with the broadcast. It's a touching reminder of how deeply sport connects generations and shapes the bonds within families. For betting enthusiasts following England's tournament run, Richards remains a credible voice in analysis despite the personal tragedy, and his perspective on the team's performance carries added poignancy given the circumstances under which he delivered it.
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