A BBC Sports presenter is quitting after 13 years because of a drawing by her four-year-old daughter that she says “burned in my memory”.
Natalie Pirks, who has covered four World Cups and four Olympic Games during her tenure at the corporation, announced her departure on Instagram on Tuesday. She wrote: “In two weeks I’m leaving the job I always dreamed of having. Here’s why: Twenty-plus years in broadcasting, four World Cups, four Olympic Games, countless major finals. By every measure, I made it. But my daughter once drew a picture of me that is burned in my memory.”
The drawing that stopped a career
The image, drawn by her daughter when she was four, showed Pirks lying down, pregnant, and working on her phone. “I was laying down (pregnant) and working on my phone. She was just four years old. And she was right. Successful on paper. Spinning plates in real life. Good at your job but your own harshest critic, missing key moments with your family, wondering if this is really it? I SEE YOU,” Pirks wrote.
She used the post to reflect on what she had learned from decades in the industry. “Here’s what these decades have actually taught me: Your job is the most important of the least important things. I’m running towards balance and presence, using all the skills I’ve learned in 25 years in the media.”
Pirks added: “Have you ever felt like there is a whole other life out there for you? That you are still ambitious and have plenty to give but crave more peace in your work? Let me know in the comments if I’m not alone and follow if you can relate. The best is just beginning…”
A decorated career
Pirks joined the BBC in 2013, having previously worked for ITV News, ITN, Setanta Sports News and Radio 1 Newsbeat. She began her career after winning a BBC talent competition that earned her an appearance on Grandstand. She holds a BA (Hons) in Multimedia Journalism from Bournemouth University, graduated in 2000, and learned shorthand to widen her options across TV, radio and print.
Beyond the tournaments she mentioned, she has also reported from four Commonwealth Games, covered numerous cup finals, England men’s European Championship campaigns and the Lionesses’ Euro 2022 victory. Her reporting has extended into sensitive areas: she has investigated athlete mistreatment in gymnastics, the links between football and dementia, and the rise of online abuse. Her interview subjects include Sir David Beckham, Sir Lewis Hamilton, Cristiano Ronaldo and Simone Biles.
She is married to Diego Rincon, a Colombian creative producer, whom she wed in 2006. The couple have two daughters: Ariella, born in 2011, and Soraya, born in 2016. Pirks has spoken openly about the challenge of balancing her globetrotting role with family life; her husband once playfully “indoctrinated” their daughters to support Colombia during the 2018 World Cup, a moment she shared on air. Away from work, she enjoys weightlifting and reformer Pilates. She describes herself on social media as a “sports billy, wife, mama of 2. Lover of Marmite.” Estimates of her net worth place it around $1m, with an annual salary estimated between $20,000 and $100,000, though exact figures have not been publicly disclosed. She is also a mentor with organisations including Kick It Out, supporting young women in the media. Despite a perceived physical resemblance to BBC Breakfast presenter Sally Nugent, Pirks is not related to her.
Reflections on balance – and a chorus of support
Pirks’ decision to step away from a career she once dreamed of is rooted in a desire for “peace” and “presence”. She said she is “running towards balance and presence, using all the skills I’ve learned in 25 years in the media.”
Her post drew an immediate response from fellow broadcasters. Sky Sports’ Hayley McQueen wrote: “Absolutely relate but what a role model you have been to your own girls and all those who’ve enjoyed watching you over the years! X” Kelly Somers, also of the BBC, said: “Totally, totally relate!!! Will never forget standing with you in a mixed zone in Russia and you talking about your girls at home and thinking what an amazing role model you were for them. Congrats on an incredible stint and doing what’s best for you and them. ❤️”
Laura Woods added: “RELATE x 1000000000 well done Nat, this is amazing xxx.” Bianca Westwood of Sky Sports wrote: “I 100% felt like that & I don’t even have kids! I needed a slower pace, more meaningful time spent, and not having to answer to men! Good luck in your next phase I’m sure it’ll be amazing x.” Fellow presenter Angus Scott said: “You are absolutely right. Whether you are female or male it’s about balance and we often get it wrong. We are devoted to our work, but work never recognises that in return. We are devoted to our families, and they will recognise that – if we are present. We all get sucked in to this ‘glamorous’ world – but it’s only telly. Well played Nat and congrats on making a great choice.”
