FOX Sports removes Lothar Matthäus from World Cup coverage

Billed by FOX Sports’ World Cup producer as “one of Germany’s all-time elite players, he brings invaluable knowledge and experience to our telecasts,” legendary soccer player Lothar Matthäus has been removed from FOX Sports’ World Cup coverage without spending a single minute on set.

When FOX Sports announced their studio talent in April, Matthäus was listed first in their press release touting the star talent that would be featured in their analysis of the 2018 World Cup.

But according to Washington Post reporter Steven Goff, Matthäus has been removed from FOX broadcasts “due to schedule conflicts.” Goff added, “The split did not end well, I hear. Given the timing, it goes without saying, I guess.”

However, could FOX’s decision to dump Matthäus be a result of the German World Cup winner endorsing Morocco for the 2026 World Cup hosting? Matthäus certainly didn’t hide his support when he became an ambassador for Morocco’s bid (see video below).