Nigel Farage tells Sky Sports to sack Gary Neville

Nigel Farage has called for Sky Sports to sack Gary Neville, accusing the pundit of being “detached from reality” following controversial remarks about the Union Jack and political division in the UK.

Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has publicly criticised Gary Neville after the former footballer posted a video explaining why he removed a Union Jack flag from one of his development sites in Manchester.

Neville argued that the flag was being used “in a negative fashion” and blamed “angry, middle-aged white men” for fueling division in the country. His comments came shortly after a terrorist attack at a Manchester synagogue, prompting widespread backlash from politicians and the public alike.

Farage responded with his own video, expressing disbelief that Neville still retained his role at Sky Sports. He accused Neville of insulting the very people who pay his wages—namely, Sky Sports subscribers—and claimed that Neville’s remarks were out of touch with the average football fan.

Farage argued that by targeting a demographic that includes many viewers, Neville was effectively blaming them for societal tensions rather than addressing the root causes of extremism.

The controversy has sparked protests, with banners labelling Neville a “traitor” appearing outside Old Trafford and Salford City FC, the club he co-owns.

Conservative MP Kemi Badenoch also condemned Neville’s actions, stating that the Union Flag should be a symbol of unity and pride, not division.

Despite the uproar, Sky Sports has confirmed that Neville will not face disciplinary action, citing that their social media guidelines do not require the same level of impartiality as public broadcasters like the BBC.

Neville, known for his outspoken political views, defended his position by emphasising his love for the UK and his concern over growing polarisation.

He maintained that his decision to remove the flag was not anti-British but a response to how it was being misused.

Nonetheless, Farage’s call for his dismissal has intensified the debate over the role of public figures in political discourse and whether broadcasters should hold them accountable for controversial statements.