The National Football Museum is delighted to announce that Barry Davies, one of the most iconic voices in football commentary, will be inducted into its prestigious Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place on Saturday 8 March 2025, during Crystal Palace’s Premier League fixture against Ipswich Town at Selhurst Park.
Upon the news, Davies said: “This time, I am totally lost for words. What a wonderful surprise. What an honour. I can’t quite believe I am worthy of joining so many great names of the game.”
Selhurst Park holds a special place in Barry’s heart, as it was here that he made his debut for the legendary BBC programme Match of the Day. Fittingly, it was also the venue for his final broadcast, bringing a full circle to a storied career that spanned over five decades.
Crystal Palace Chairman Steve Parish said “Barry’s voice is known worldwide to football fans for his distinguished commentary across many memorable matches. His INCREDIBLE career will be remembered for his iconic VOICE accompanying some of the greatest goals seen in our homes over the years. We are delighted to play host to Barry and his guests and congratulate him on this special achievement.”
Barry Davies’ unmistakable voice and eloquent narration captured some of the most memorable moments in football history. His ability to bring games to life with wit, insight, and passion earned him a place not only in the hearts of football fans but also as one of the sport’s most cherished figures.
Tim Desmond, CEO of the National Football Museum, said: “Barry Davies is a true legend of the game. His commentary has provided the soundtrack to some of football’s greatest moments and has brought joy to millions of fans. To honour his incredible contribution to the sport at a venue that means so much to him is truly special. We’re thrilled to celebrate Barry’s legacy at Selhurst Park and soon welcome him into the Hall of Fame.”
Davies joined the BBC in July 1969, with his 35-year love affair with Match of the Day beginning shortly after, making his debut in unusual circumstances on 9 August 1969.
The programme was to take up a new format, providing each region with its own second match. Davies was signed primarily to cover matches in the North of England and was assigned League Champions Leeds United’s match with Tottenham Hotspur on day one. However, on the day before the broadcast, main commentator and presenter David Coleman lost his voice, succumbing to the same flu illness that had already ruled Kenneth Wolstenholme out of covering that weekend’s matches.
Davies, who had stayed in the Queen’s Hotel in Leeds on the Friday night, describes in his autobiography how he “barely had time to eat his cornflakes” on the Saturday morning before being put in a fast car and driven to London so he could commentate on the main match, Crystal Palace v Manchester United, and co-present the show with Frank Bough.
Davies would then commentate his last ever football match where it all began, at Selhurst park for Crystal Palace vs West Ham in August 2014. This was to celebrate Match of the Day turning 50.
The National Football Museum Hall of Fame recognises individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the English game. Barry Davies’ inclusion underscores his lasting impact and the enduring affection in which he is held by the footballing community.
The application window for the Hall of Fame is open, and football fans, communities, and clubs across the country are encouraged to nominate the players, coaches, contributors and key figures in football who have made an extraordinary impact on the game. You can complete the form by clicking below.