Football legend and radio rising star, Jimmy Bartel will host Wide World of Sports, Thursday Night Footy and Friday Night Footy on Melbourne’s Number 1 Station – 3AW – in 2025.

The triple premiership player, Brownlow Medallist, Norm Smith Medallist and AFL Hall of Famer will headline the go to destination for the best footy insights and analysis, together with talkback debate and discussion in this new era of AFL.

Jimmy is already well loved by the 3AW audience, hosting Sunday AFL last year, filling in on breakfast with Mark Allen and raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for Very Special Kids.

Jimmy Bartel said: “I’m thrilled to take on this new role. Being part of the 3AW family has been incredibly rewarding. I can’t wait to engage with listeners, bring them the big stories, and celebrate everything that makes sport so special.”

Stephen Beers, 3AW Station Manager, said: “Jimmy Bartel has long been part of the 3AW family, and we’re thrilled to see him step into the hosting role for Wide World of Sport, along with Thursday Night Footy and Friday Night Footy. Jimmy’s deep understanding of sport, combined with his media savvy and natural connection with audiences, makes him the ideal choice. He’s also got a massive heart – and our listeners love him. We thank Sam McClure for his fantastic contributions and wish him all the best as he focuses on his role at The Age.”

Ash Earnshaw, Nine’s Director of Sales, Total Audio, said: “3AW now has the biggest and best platform for sports lovers and sports advertisers. Jimmy Bartel’s appointment strengthens an already iconic program and reinforces our position as the leading destination for AFL and Sport. Jimmy’s presence across both 3AW and Nine enhances the synergy of the Wide World of Sports brand, delivering exceptional opportunities for advertisers to connect with passionate and engaged audiences.”