Jonathan Champion is a distinguished British sports commentator renowned for his extensive experience in association football commentary. He began his career in the late 1980s with BBC Sport, where he quickly established himself as a prominent voice in football. Champion’s tenure at the BBC included notable commentaries on significant matches, such as the UEFA Champions League Final in 1996 and England’s 1998 World Cup campaign. His ability to engage audiences led to a permanent transition to television commentary, where he covered Premier League highlights and FA Cup matches for five successful seasons.
In 2001, Champion made a strategic move to ITV Sport, where he became a key figure in their commentary team for the Premier League and UEFA Champions League. His versatility was showcased during major tournaments, as he was loaned back to ITV for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012. Champion’s dynamic partnership with fellow commentators, including Ally McCoist during the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, further solidified his reputation as a leading voice in sports broadcasting.
Champion’s career took another significant turn in 2007 when he joined Setanta Sports as their lead FA Premier League commentator. Following Setanta’s closure, he transitioned to ESPN, where he became the lead commentator for Premier League matches and the FA Cup. His contributions to ESPN included memorable commentaries during the 2014 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2016, showcasing his ability to captivate audiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
Most recently, Champion joined NBC Sports in 2023, where he continues to commentate on Premier League matches, further enhancing his already impressive portfolio. His commitment to excellence and passion for football have made him a respected figure in sports commentary, and his work continues to inspire fans and aspiring commentators alike.