Former England defender Micah Richards has revealed that his father, Lincoln Richards, died unexpectedly just moments before he went on air as a BBC pundit for England’s FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal against Argentina.

Despite receiving the devastating news shortly before kick-off in Atlanta, Richards chose to fulfil his broadcasting duties, saying his father would have wanted “the show to go on.”

Micah Richards pays emotional tribute to father

Richards announced the news in an emotional post on Instagram following England’s 2-1 defeat to Argentina.

“Not long before going on air today, I received the awful news that my father Lincoln had passed away. His death was unexpected, and he has left us all too soon.”

“He was my greatest fan”

The former Manchester City defender described Lincoln as the biggest supporter throughout his football career.

“He was my greatest fan. He barely missed a game my entire life.”

“He would take me wherever I needed to go when I was a kid and he was the proudest parent possible during my professional career. It was so rare for him to not be by my side.”

“Dad would’ve wanted the show to go on”

Richards explained why he still appeared on the BBC’s World Cup coverage alongside Joe Hart and Wayne Rooney despite the personal tragedy.

“I know how much watching England World Cup games means to everyone at home, and how the experience bonds families together across the generations, like nothing else.”

“I know, particularly as a proud old-school Yorkshireman, dad would’ve wanted the show to go on this evening. And so it did.”

“My hero and inspiration”

Richards ended his tribute by remembering his father and thinking of his family.

“Thinking of my siblings and all my wider family today as we remember my father Lincoln, my hero and inspiration.”

Lincoln Richards was a constant presence throughout Micah’s football journey, rarely missing a match and supporting his son’s development from grassroots football through to his professional career and international appearances for England.