All the BBC World Cup experts, hosts, and commentators together
The BBC is excited to kick off its first group stage match of the 2026 World Cup on Friday, when hosts Canada take on Bosnia and Herzegovina. A great team of well-known presenters and experts will be joining the coverage for the tournament.
This summer, the BBC will show 54 out of the 104 matches across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Leading the TV coverage are Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, Gabby Logan, and Alex Scott.
Gabby Logan will host Friday’s game in Toronto, while former Manchester City defender Micah Richards will join World Cup winner Olivier Giroud as pundits. If you prefer listening, the match will also be available on BBC Radio 5 Live, BBC Sounds, and BBC Sport Online, with Kelly Cates presenting the radio coverage.
So, who else will be part of the action over the next six weeks? As mentioned, Gabby Logan will lead the coverage for the Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina match. She’s been with the BBC since 2007 and is expected to make history as the first woman to anchor the BBC’s World Cup final coverage.
Alongside Logan, Kelly Cates, Mark Chapman, and former England and Arsenal defender Alex Scott will play key roles in the TV coverage. Fans watching Canada’s opener will hear insights from Micah Richards and Olivier Giroud.
Across the tournament, other familiar faces like Alan Shearer, Wayne Rooney, Ellen White, Steph Houghton, Rachel Corsie, and Joe Hart will also join as pundits. Former Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta, who retired earlier this year, will share his thoughts, along with Benni McCarthy, Lucas Leiva, and Thomas Frank.
For those who love commentary, the BBC’s team includes Guy Mowbray, Steve Wilson, Steve Bower, Jonathan Pearce, Robyn Cowen, Steven Wyeth, and Liam McLeod. Alan Shearer will add to the commentary alongside his pundit role.
Other co-commentators who will join throughout the tournament include Danny Murphy, Stephen Warnock, Efan Ekoku, Martin Keown, Sue Smith, Rachel Corsie, James McFadden, and Paul Robinson. It’s sure to be an exciting World Cup with great coverage from the BBC!