Ranking BBC and ITV's World Cup 2026 commentators

Copy linkFacebookXPinterestEmailShare this article 0Join the conversationFollow usAdd us as a preferred source on GoogleNewsletterSubscribe to our newsletterSome familiar voices are soundtracking the UK's World Cup coverage, with BBC and ITV headlining their coverage with a host of well-known voices from their flagship football programming.The broadcasters have taken different approaches to their studio setups, with the Beeb staying in Salford while ITV ventured Stateside; both still have boots on the ground, and mics.At the time of writing, 75% of the games have been played, so that feels like a sufficient body of data from which to rank the commentators calling the action in North America this summer. Running it down from 12 to 1, here's who we think has excelled and who has excruciated.Play our FREE match predictor and win �1kBBC and ITV's World Cup commentators ranked12. Sam MatterfaceAs painful as he is polarising, Matterface's commentary remains toe-curling. It's hard to find anyone with a positive word about his mic work who isn't a blood relative. Brace yourself for another potential foot-in-mouth moment if England manage to go far in the tournament.11. Jonathan Pearce'JP' found his vocal range when describing Eric Cantona's kung-fu kick at Selhurst Park in 1995 and never really dialled it down. A man for whom the phrase 'gravelly overtones' was tailor-made. A legendary voice, yes. But one to be enjoyed in small doses these days.10. Vicki SparksThe first female commentator to take the lead for a World Cup game on British TV is highly adept, but her enthusiasm during New Zealand and Belgium's recent bleary-eyed encounter wasn't exactly infectious. Like an over-enthusiastic holiday rep when you're managing a particularly violent hangover. You may like World Cup 2026: The BBC's presenters, pundits, commentators and reporters in full Who are the ITV commentators, pundits and presenters for South Korea vs Czechia? Who are the ITV commentators, pundits and presenters for England vs Croatia? 9. Joe SpeightThe man who ITV occasionally threw it back to after Duncan Ferguson finished tormenting his fellow studio pundits. A tough act to follow for any commentator. A harmless if unremarkable RP tone.8. Steve BowerA staple of Match of the Day's line-up, what you hear is what you get with Bower. Solid, polished equally at home voicing a Messi wonder strike as is he is a broadband advert.Get FourFourTwo NewsletterThe best features, fun and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox every week.Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.7. Steve WilsonA voice that sounds so much like a friendly village pub landlord, you get cravings for triple-cooked chips in the middle of Czech Republic vs South Africa.6. Steven WyethA powerful commentary voice, but marked down for overuse of the word 'extraordinary '.5. Robyn CowenThere hasn't been many remarkable soundbites from Cowen at this World Cup, like her memorable Women's Euro 2022 line of 'Dream makers, record breakers, game changers' but it's only a matter of time, surely. A victim of her own success in that it can be jarring to hear her commentate on anything that isn't a Lionesses game. What to read next Where is ITV World Cup studio? Outrageous first look leaves BBC blushing Who are the ITV commentators, pundits and presenters for Mexico vs South Africa? Commentators, pundits and presenters for Argentina vs Algeria 4. Liam McLeodScotland's long-awaited but ultimately short-lived World Cup return saw McLeod step up as their lead BBC commentator, a huge honour that became a thankless task at times. One of the few things Scotland can be proud of at this tournament.3. Seb HutchinsonBorn to call long-range screamers. If he can improve his short game, he could be a real contender for top spot.2. Jon ChampionThe closest thing to the late Clive Tyldesley, who we are mourning the loss of despite still being alive. Champion is by name and nature a man who embodies the last great era of football commentary. Perfectly gastromatched to Alan Shearer. Feels like our last connection to the legends of the mic.1. Guy MowbrayLike watching a game with a mate, authoritative, knowledgeable, without being overbearing or patronising. A totally natural caller of football.Richard Buxton