The BBC pundit shared the heartbreaking news on Wednesday.
Micah Richards has revealed his ‘hero’ father passed away just hours before he appeared in the studio in Atlanta as a pundit at England’s World Cup semi-final match against Argentina last night.
The 38-year-old received the unexpected news on Wednesday, June 15, while he was in the US with hopes of England reaching the World Cup finals for the first time since 1966.
While the entire country suffered a heartbreaking defeat, the former footballer was privately dealing with his own tragedy as he appeared live at Atlanta Stadium alongside Wayne Rooney and Joe Hart to discuss the aftermath of the game.
Hours later, Micah Richards shared a childhood snap to Instagram with his father alongside an emotional message.
He wrote: “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. 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. “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. “Thinking of my siblings and all my wider family today as we remember my father Lincoln, my hero and inspiration.”
Fans, footballers and fellow pundits have rushed to support Micah after his devastating news.
Footballer John Terry wrote: “So sorry @micahrichards. Sending our love and condolences mate at this very difficult time.”
Chef Gordon Ramsay commented: “Condolences. Micah sending love to you and your family.”
Carol Vorderman penned: “I’m so very sorry to hear this news Micah. But as a proud old Yorkshireman he absolutely would have been so incredibly proud of literally everything you’ve achieved and he will still be with you as you go through all of your chapter to come . Sending best.”
England were knocked out of the World Cup last night after a narrow 2-1 defeat against Argentina at Atlanta Stadium.
After the Three Lions took the lead early in the second half thanks to after Morgan Rogers’ goal, Argentina came back fighting with Enzo Fernandez equalising with a strike in the 85th minute.
Lautaro Martinez then sealed the deal with a 92nd-minute header with both goals coming from assists by Lionel Messi.
Argentina will now face Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday, June 19.
