Top Gear's new hosts named as Paddy McGuinness and Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff
Matt Le Blanc will step down as host following the new series
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Your support makes all the difference.Paddy McGuinness and Andrew Flintoff have been announced as the next presenters of Top Gear.
The BBC has confirmed that former Friends actor Matt LeBlanc will step down as host following the next series of the motoring show.
The new duo will join current presenter Chris Harris to complete the line-up. Rory Reid will step down as main presenter but “will remain part of the Top Gear family” along with Sabine Schmitz.
Flintoff, a former England cricket captain, and comedian and TV presenter McGuinness, will begin filming the 27th series of Top Gear early next year.
Flintoff said of taking on the role: ”It’s not often you have the chance to do both of your dream jobs, but I’m now lucky enough to say I will have.
“I’ve always been passionate about cars and I’m so excited to be joining the Top Gear team.”
He later Tweeted a photo of himself with McGuinness and Reid with the caption: "New team mates... Not going to lie, couldn’t be happier."
McGuinness said: “Getting the Top Gear gig is a real honour and I’m thrilled the BBC have given me this opportunity.
“To be hosting a show I’ve watched and loved from being a small boy is beyond exciting.”
Since Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May left the BBC2 series, the show has had a rotating roster of presenters.
Chris Evans and LeBlanc initially acted as lead presenters, with Schmitz, Harris, Reid and Eddie Jordan appearing in some episodes.
Evans left after just six episodes, with Harris and Reid being bumped up to main presenting duties.
Reid will continue to host Top Gear's companion show Extra Gear.
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