More than 20,000 Sign Petition to Save Ski Sunday
5th September 2026
The programme has been axed by the BBC after being on our TV screens for almost 50 years. Many are upset at its demise but the decision is unlikely to be reversed. NEW
The announcement was made earlier this week by the BBC as we reported on PlanetSKI:
It met with immediate condemnation by some of its loyal viewers and a petition to re-instate the programme was launched by Snowsport England.
“For decades, this hugely popular BBC TV show introduced new skiers, snowboarders and future athletes to the mountains. This week, it was announced that the BBC would not be commissioning Ski Sunday moving forwards,” said Snowsport England.
“We were saddened by this news, so we’ve started a petition to bring it back.
“Are you a Ski Sunday lover?
“Sign our petition now – and share with your fellow snowsports fans.”
View this post on Instagram
See here to sign the petition
10,000 people signed the petition in the first 24-hours, and that figure had climbed to 20, 410 by Saturday 5th.
Whether it has success is another matter and some feel that with dwindling audience and pressures on cost that the programme was quite simply past its sell-by-date:
What is not in doubt is the strength of feeling by many:
It’s co-presenter, Chemmy Alcott, has vowed to help get another snowsport programe back on the TV screens.
View this post on Instagram
The other co-presenter, Ed Leigh, already has a new project underway.
View this post on Instagram
The BBC has reacted to the complaints.
“We’ve received complaints from those who are unhappy with the decision to end Ski Sunday’s run on the BBC,” said the BBC in a statement.
“As has been widely reported, the BBC is facing significant budget cuts, and we’re having to make tough decisions about some of our shows.
“Sadly, we aren’t in a position to continue with Ski Sunday, which we appreciate is disappointing news for those who enjoyed watching along with us.
“Changing audience behaviours and the tough financial decisions needed to meet savings requirements mean BBC Sport must continually review how it delivers value for licence fee payers and serves audiences across all platforms.”
For many skiers and snowboarders they just want Ski Sunday back on the BBC at its fixed time on a Sunday afternoon, and to hear that theme tune again.
Here are some of the comments from people that have signed the petition:
“Relative to much BBC output, Ski Sunday reflects the mission, values and public purposes of the BBC. Moreover, in our current world of streaming and infinite choice, it is one of the few examples of television programming that brings whole families together. It is a central, characteristically British institution with captivating presenters who, following the winter Olympics, should see this programme elevated, not demolished. – Philip T.
“I can’t understand why this fabulous family sport programme is being cut when you show mindless drivel like Eastenders! Please save it and let those of us who pay for a tv licence have something decent left to watch! – Joanna S.
“I didn’t start skiing until I was 40. I learnt in Austria on a beginners week and then enjoyed ski holidays in France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Sweden, Finland, Canada and America. Now 82 my days of Skiing are a wonderful memory and times with the family. Ski Sunday kept me in touch with a pastime that gives so enjoyment in an outdoor environment. What irks me most is I have just renewed my BBC licence fee, never again! Makes a mockery of “ What have the BBC done for me” – Graham F
The BBC devotes more and more time to a smaller range of sports. It is not broadening our horizons but narrowing them – Alicia A.
“Cancelling Ski Sunday – which was basically 6 programmes per YEAR, was one of the biggest mistakes the BBC has made recently. They need to listen to what the viewers want. And we want Ski Sunday to remain.” – Alison S
“What are you playing at BBC? Suggest you consider offering to the licence fee paying general public programmes we want to watch. Where were the Commonwealth Games ? What has happened to coverage of the Six Nations Rugby Union always previously a staple of the BBC for generations ? Will Wimbledon be next for the axe ? Stop paying ridiculous ,inflated and extortionate and frankly obscene fees to ineffectual executives and pay a real wage.” – Stephen J.
“Ski Sunday helped me feel part of the wider winter sports community, at a time when it’s hard to be able to afford to go skiing out in the Alps. I loved watching it with my wife on a Sunday, and the Brits were starting to actually do well in the racing too!” – Tom R.
PlanetSKI: Number 1 for digital ski news
Your digital platform for ski news, resort information, travel, equipment rental, sport, money saving deals and everything connected with snowsports – web site, social media & more.
