When does the new Top Gear start, who are the presenters and did Matt LeBlanc quit?
SADLY, Top Gear is coming to an end tonight (March 17).
In just a few hours’ time, the long-running BBC motoring series will be over for another year – but don’t worry, there’s a brand spanking new season in the works complete with a new line-up and more adventures than ever. Want to know more? Read on for the lowdown on series 27….
When does the new Top Gear start?
Traditionally, the BBC releases one series a year.
So, although producers haven’t yet confirmed an exact start date, it’s pretty certain that the new season will drop early next year.
Top Gear series 26 launched on February 17, meanwhile, To Gear series 25 kick-started on March 5.
If the show’s history is anything to go by, expect series 27 to land on our screens around February-March 2020.
Who is hosting the new Top Gear?
Unfortunately for hardcore fans, lead host Matt LeBlanc announced series 26 would be his last.
While that’s pretty rubbish, on the bright side, there are some new faces joining Chris Harris and Rory Reid for the new series.
Bearing in mind that Matt’s shoes will be pretty difficult to try to fill, BBC bosses have recruited two new presenters for Top Gear – Freddie Flintoff and Paddy McGuinness.
A BBC source told The Sun: “Paddy and Freddie are real curveball signings which no one predicted and bosses are delighted with them..
“The BBC think having a British trio – two Lancashire lads and a car buff – is a good move.
“Paddy and Fred are car-mad too. Paddy’s one-liners and Fred’s sense of adventure should bring back the old days of Top Gear.”
They added: “The BBC’s top bosses and everyone else involved in the casting were bowled over by Paddy and Freddie – they are utterly infectious and will bring a new energy and competitive spirit to the show.”
The newbies have already started filming the new series – and looked like they were having a blast on the job.
More on Top Gear
Why did Matt LeBlanc quit Top Gear?
Matt decided to hand in his notice because he want to spend more time with his family and friends.
The 51-year-old American star said that although the show is “great fun,” the “time commitment and extensive travel… takes me away from my family and friends more than I’m comfortable with.”
“I will forever be a Top Gear fan and I wish the team continued success. Thanks for a great drive.”
BBC Two controller Patrick Holland said: “I want to thank the fabulous Matt LeBlanc for being a brilliant co-host on Top Gear.”