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German radio announces women commentators for Euro 2020, Qatar World Cup finals
- The decision came on the back of a retiring reporter's comments that the industry's "glass ceiling" will never be shattered
- This prompted ARD to change its lineup for this summer's European championship, as well as next year's World Cup in Qatar
- Sports reporter Julia Metzner will commentate the final of Euro 2020
German radio broadcasters ARD on Friday announced they will use an all-female commentary team for the final matches of the upcoming men’s tournaments Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
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The decision came on the back of a retiring reporter’s comments, fearing that the industry’s “glass ceiling” will never be shattered, AFP reported.
Veteran radio commentator Sabine Topperwien, following her retirement last week, expressed doubts that she will “live to see a World Cup final commentated by a woman”.
This prompted ARD to change its lineup for this summer’s European championship, as well as next year’s World Cup in Qatar.
“These decisions are intended to underline ARD’s desire to continue to promote women in sports journalism,” the broadcaster said in a statement.
Sports reporter Julia Metzner, who is currently employed with sister station SWR, will commentate the final of Euro 2020, scheduled to be held on July 11 in London’s Wembley Stadium.
“Julia comments on the Bundesliga for eight million listeners on ARD’s radio stations and does a great job. She deserves this final,” ARD manager Steffen Simon said.
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Topperwien, meanwhile, has revelled lauded the broadcaster’s decision, expressing her delight over her comments leading to the change.
“I am very happy for my successors that they are now getting two such opportunities,” she said.
It is yet to be decided who will commentate the World Cup final in Doha on December 18 next year.
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