Simon Hill, the veteran commentator who has narrated so many of Australian football’s greatest moments, signed off after 22 years of passionate service to the game Down Under.
His call at AAMI Park on Saturday marked his 16th and final A-League Grand Final, bringing to a close a remarkable broadcasting career in Australia.
Hill is set to return to the UK, ending a chapter that began unexpectedly back in 2002 when, following a trip to the FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan, he made a detour to Australia which ended up being a decision that would change his life.
Beginning his Australian career at SBS, Hill initially focused on European football coverage. But with the launch of the A-League in 2005, he became immersed in the domestic game just as it was finding its feet. His voice would go on to define the league’s rise, from its debut season right through to its most recent campaign.
From SBS to a long stint at Fox Sports, and more recently on Network 10, Hill has been a constant presence for fans. Whether it was thrilling Grand Finals, Socceroos World Cup qualifiers, or unforgettable moments of individual brilliance, his calls added a layer of drama and emotion to the sport that endeared him to generations of Australian football supporters.
The 2025 Grand Final being a gripping all-Melbourne affair, was a fitting farewell for one of Australian football’s landmark voices.
Simon Hill spoke in an interview with the A-Leagues about his long journey and how much Australia meant to him.
“The A-League has been a huge part of my life for the best part of 20 years. I’ll miss the competition, as frustrating as it is from time to time, but I’ll miss mostly the people involved in it. Being on the circuit and seeing people at grounds, and my colleagues at Network 10 as well, who’ve been brilliant to work with,” Hill said in a chat with A-Leagues.
“As I have pointed out to people, I’m not retiring, I’m not dying. I’m just moving. I’ve got things I’m looking forward to when I get back to the UK, not just with regards to football. I want to stay involved in the game, hoping to continue my commentary career. So it’s the end of a chapter, but hopefully not the end of the book just yet.”
Simon Hill has been more than just a commentator; he’s also been the leading voice of Australian football.
Amongst the divided mainstream media coverage and many controversies in the local game, Simon Hill has been a constant online and in the booth.
For over two decades, his knowledge, passion, and unwavering dedication have helped legitimise and elevate the game across the country.
Whether calling Socceroos milestones, A-League thrillers, or World Cup qualifiers, Hill brought a sense of professionalism that shaped how the sport was understood and appreciated by fans.
He played a pivotal role in growing the game’s profile, often advocating for its progress through thoughtful analysis and fearless commentary.
In many ways, Hill gave Australian football a voice when it needed it most and his impact will be felt long after his final sign-off.
