However, Whateley confirmed on Tuesday night that he would remain with Fox. He’s expected to form a key part of their expanded match day team in 2025, with Fox due to call all nine fixtures each round themselves next season.
Whateley said he and Robinson were brought initially together after “with almost nothing in common, other than footy”, which formed the foundation for their relationship.
Seven commentary stalwart Brian Taylor.
“In television terms, it’s an astonishingly long time to spend together and I’ll always have the sense of gratitude for the almost 1500 shows that we’ve done in partnership together. Robbo, it’s been grand,” Whateley said, signing off the final show of the year on Monday.
There would be little room for Whateley in Seven’s commentary line-up, with the network’s former head of sport Lewis Martin handing James Brayshaw a new five-year contract earlier this year before his own exit, two of the sources said. Commentator Brian Taylor was also handed a new five-year deal this year.
Seven was approached for comment.
After securing both Cornes and Nick Riewoldt, the Seven network is also expected to confirm the appointment of Caroline Wilson and Craig Hutchison.
Caroline Wilson and Craig Hutchison.
Speaking on RSN on Tuesday morning, Robinson said he was informed by Crawley last week that changes were being made to the program – and that he was the change.
“Clearly, at the end, not everyone was in my corner. Well, if you’re going to get sacked from that show, clearly people aren’t in your corner,” he said.
While Robinson described his decision not to appear on the final episode as a show of maturity, one of his colleagues said they were disappointed he wasn’t there.
Loading
Despite Robinson’s removal from the show after 14 years, Fox is keen to retain him for other panel shows, including Midweek Tackle and a potential interview show, the sources said.
Robinson said he is considering a number of Fox Footy proposals that Crawley put to him.
The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning.