Les Murray, former ABU Sports Chair dies in Australia

The ABU is saddened to hear of the passing of legendary football broadcaster Les Murray this week in Australia at the age of 71 after a long period of illness.

He had served as Chair of ABU Sports Group for more than 10 years. Murray was also a member of the FIFA Ethics Committee and that was indicative of the respect he held in the game, both at home and abroad.

The Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) where he worked for more than three decades said in a statement that “Les will be remembered not just for his 35-year contribution to football in Australia, but for being a much-loved colleague, mentor and friend who has left a unique legacy”.

SBS Managing Director Michael Ebeid said Murray was an inspiration to many and Australians know Les as Mr Football, who began working with SBS when it launched as a television broadcaster in 1980. His role went far beyond being a football commentator.

The ABU Secretary-General, Dr Javad Mottaghi said that with the demise of Les Murray, the Union loses not only a close friend but also a respected sports media professional. Dr Mottaghi expressed his sincere condolence to Les Murray’s family and all his colleagues at the SBS-Australia , in the Asia-Pacific region and worldwide.