Horse racing has long been a staple of British television, and ITV Racing continues that tradition with dynamic coverage of flat and jump racing.
The presenters and pundits are more than broadcasters; they are former champions, journalists, and experts who live and breathe the sport.
Their knowledge, passion, and unique personalities ensure that viewers experience every race with added depth and excitement.
Here’s a closer look at the team driving ITV’s racing broadcasts.
1. Ed Chamberlin (Presenter)
Ed Chamberlin is the lead presenter for ITV Racing and has been the face of the coverage since 2017.
Before joining ITV, he built his reputation on Sky Sports, where he fronted Premier League coverage for nearly a decade.
His confident delivery and ability to handle live drama make him a trusted figure for audiences during major race days.
Chamberlin’s chemistry with fellow presenters and pundits is key to the smooth and entertaining flow of ITV’s broadcasts.
2. Francesca Cumani (Presenter)
Francesca Cumani joined ITV Racing in 2017, bringing her lifelong passion for the sport as the daughter of trainer Luca Cumani. Known for her clear explanations and polished style, she makes horse racing accessible to a wide audience.
She also presents horse racing for Australia’s Nine Network, showcasing her international reach. In 2019, her work was recognised when she won the Broadcast Sports Presenter of the Year.
3. Oli Bell (Presenter)
Oli Bell has carved out his role as one of ITV Racing’s most approachable and versatile presenters. He hosts The Opening Show, a Sunday morning programme that dives into racing stories, features, and interviews.
Bell’s laid-back style and enthusiasm help connect new audiences to the traditions of the sport. His ability to balance humour with serious discussion makes him a standout member of the team.
4. Matt Chapman (Presenter)
Matt Chapman is ITV Racing’s most outspoken and colourful personality. Known for his fast-talking delivery and unfiltered opinions, Chapman provides betting insights and bold analysis.
While his style can be divisive, his energy ensures that coverage is never dull. Chapman’s knowledge of form and markets adds an extra layer of insight for seasoned racing fans.
5. Rishi Persad (Presenter)
Rishi Persad is a seasoned broadcaster who joined ITV Racing with years of experience at the BBC and Channel 4. He is admired for his professionalism and ability to remain calm under pressure during live broadcasts.
Persad often handles post-race interviews, delivering thoughtful questions that draw out engaging responses from jockeys and trainers. His warm personality and credibility make him a respected figure in sports broadcasting.
6. Jason Weaver (Pundit)
Jason Weaver, a former Classic-winning jockey, brings first-hand experience of the track to his role as pundit and presenter.
His commentary is rich with technical insights, helping viewers understand the intricacies of riding strategies while keeping explanations clear and engaging.
In addition to his ITV Racing work, Weaver is also a presenter for Sky Sports, further showcasing his expertise across major platforms.
His approachable style and ability to simplify complex tactics make him a favourite among both casual fans and racing enthusiasts.
7. Sally Ann Grassick (Presenter)
Sally Ann Grassick has a background rooted in Irish racing and contributes to ITV with her bilingual presenting skills and deep industry connections.
She is often seen trackside, conducting interviews with trainers, owners, and jockeys. Grassick’s polished delivery and thorough preparation bring credibility to her segments.
Her presence highlights the international dimension of horse racing, especially during events with strong Irish participation.
8. Adele Mulrennan (Pundit and Presenter)
Adele Mulrennan, a former jockey, is now a presenter and pundit for ITV Racing and Racing TV. She has been nominated three times for Broadcaster of the Year at the HWPA Awards, winning once, and is valued for her racing knowledge and warm style.
Often covering meetings in the north of England, Mulrennan brings a unique regional perspective that enriches ITV’s coverage.
Her strong connection to the sport and approachable presence ensure she continues to resonate with audiences across the racing community.
9. Sir AP McCoy (Presenter)
Sir Anthony “AP” McCoy is widely regarded as the greatest jump jockey in history, having been Champion Jockey a record 20 consecutive times.
Since retiring in 2015, McCoy has transitioned into broadcasting, offering ITV Racing audiences unparalleled insight.
His analysis often centres on the mindset and split-second decisions made by jockeys in high-pressure situations. McCoy’s reputation and authority make him one of the most respected pundits on television.
10. Mick Fitzgerald (Pundit)
Mick Fitzgerald, another former Champion Jockey, is one of ITV’s most dependable experts. After retiring from the saddle, he became a familiar face on racing broadcasts and is now a cornerstone of ITV’s coverage.
Fitzgerald has a gift for explaining the nuances of horse performance and race tactics in clear, relatable terms. His friendly manner and natural chemistry with co-presenters make him a key part of the team’s appeal.
11. Ruby Walsh (Pundit)
Ruby Walsh is a legendary Irish jockey whose big-race record speaks for itself. Since retiring, he has become a sharp and articulate pundit for ITV Racing.
Walsh is often called upon during major meetings such as Cheltenham and Ascot, where his tactical insights are particularly valuable. His credibility as one of racing’s greats ensures his analysis carries significant weight.
12. Brian Gleeson (Presenter)
Brian Gleeson is ITV Racing’s betting ring specialist, delivering updates and reports straight from the bookmakers on course. His lively and approachable style makes his segments a favourite with viewers.
Gleeson’s deep connections in racing allow him to bring unique perspectives on betting patterns and market moves. His presence keeps the coverage grounded in the sport’s traditions while appealing to modern audiences.
13. Alice Plunkett (Presenter)
Alice Plunkett, a former jockey and current presenter at ITV Racing, is the only woman to have competed at both the Badminton Horse Trials and over the Grand National fences.
Her background gives her unique authority, which she brings to features, interviews, and analysis on screen.
She often shines a light on the human stories behind the sport, adding depth and emotion to ITV’s coverage. Her versatility and insight make her a key presence at the network’s biggest racing events.
14. Megan Nicholls (Pundit)
Megan Nicholls, daughter of leading trainer Paul Nicholls, moved from the saddle into broadcasting in 2022. She quickly became a popular pundit, combining fresh energy with strong racing knowledge.
Nicholls often brings the perspective of a younger generation within the sport. Her contributions highlight the evolving role of women in racing media, and her influence is growing with each major festival.
15. Luke Harvey (Pundit, Presenter)
Luke Harvey, a former jockey turned presenter, brings humour, warmth, and sharp racing knowledge to ITV’s coverage.
Known for his light-hearted banter, he combines entertainment with genuine insight from his years in the saddle, making broadcasts both engaging and informative.
Beyond ITV, Harvey is also a familiar face on Sky Sports Racing, where he continues to share his expertise with a wide audience. His popularity shows how well he balances fun with authority, ensuring racing coverage appeals to both casual viewers and seasoned fans.
Why ITV Racing Stands Out
ITV Racing’s team blends expertise, charisma, and passion to bring every race to life. From seasoned champions to polished presenters, they deliver coverage that keeps viewers at the heart of the action.