Formula E Releases Statement After Disgraced Presenter Is Sacked From BBC

Saajan Jogia | Aug 24, 2024

Jun 30, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Cars round a turn in the 2024 Hankook Portland E-Prix at Portland International Raceway. Mandatory Credit: Lydia Ely-USA TODAY Sports / Lydia Ely-USA TODAY Sports

Formula E presenter Jermaine Jenas, who was part of the sport's presentation team for Season 10 until July, has been sacked by the BBC earlier this week for allegedly sending ‘inappropriate messages’ to two colleagues on The One Show.

The former footballer stepped in for Vernon Kay last season, becoming the anchor for TNT’s Formula E coverage. He also took on other broadcasting roles, notably co-presenting BBC's 'The One Show' alongside Alex Jones since 2020.

However, allegations were made against Jenas for sending inappropriate messages to two of his colleagues on the show. As a result, after investigating the issue, the BBC parted ways with the 41-year-old presenter, announcing his departure on Thursday. A spokesperson for the BBC said:

"We can confirm Jermaine Jenas is no longer part of our presenting line-up."

However, the unexpected incident has not only affected his career with the BBC, but it has also put at stake his role associated with Formula E. There is no mention of his sacking or continuation of his presenter role for Season 11, which will commence on December 7 in Sao Paulo. The statement from Formula E, as reported by GPFans.com, read:

"Jermaine Jenas was part of Formula E's presentation team for season 10, which ended in July this year.

"As per the process followed in previous seasons, we will announce our presenter line-up for season 11 in due course.

"This decision will be carefully considered, taking into account the high standards we expect to be upheld at Formula E."

Owning up to his allegations, Jenas confirmed to The Sun that he sent the messages to his colleagues but emphasized that he did nothing illegal. He said:

“I did nothing illegal — these were inappropriate messages between two consenting adults.

“I am ashamed, and I am deeply sorry.

“I have let myself down, my family, friends and colleagues down, and I owe everyone an apology — especially the women with whom I was messaging. I am so, so sorry.

“I am sorry for what I have put them through.

“I think it would be fair to say I have a problem. I know I self- sabotage and have a self-destructive streak when it comes to my relationship especially, and I know I need help. And I am getting help.

“I have made a lot of mistakes, and I am asking myself a lot of questions at the moment. I know there’s a lot of work that needs to be done, and it will be hard."