Where to Watch York Dante Festival 2026 Day 2: ITV1 with Ed Chamberlin, Richard Hoiles and Expert Team

Horse racing enthusiasts across the UK and beyond are gearing up for an exhilarating Day 2 of the York Dante Festival 2026 on Thursday, 14 May, with live coverage beamed straight into living rooms via ITV1, ITV HD, ITVX, STV (Scotland), STV HD and the STV Player. This premier fixture, part of York's prestigious three-day extravaganza, promises top-class action on the Knavesmire, highlighted by the eagerly anticipated Al Basti Equiworld, Dubai Dante Stakes on the card. Tune in from around 14:00 UK time to catch every thrilling moment, expertly narrated by a stellar ITV team led by presenters Ed Chamberlin and Francesca Cumani, with Richard Hoiles on commentary duties.

Ed Chamberlin, one of British racing's most recognisable faces, brings his wealth of experience to the helm. Having fronted ITV's coverage since 2016 after a storied tenure at Channel 4, Chamberlin's smooth delivery and deep passion for the sport have made him a household name. His career highlights include calling the finishes at Cheltenham and Royal Ascot, blending sharp analysis with engaging interviews that keep viewers hooked from the first race.

Joining him is Francesca Cumani, the accomplished presenter and journalist whose international pedigree shines through. Daughter of legendary trainer Luca Cumani, she honed her skills with the BBC and Racing TV before becoming a fixture on ITV. Cumani's globetrotting expertise, from Australian racing to the Dubai World Cup, adds a worldly perspective, making her insights invaluable for global audiences following York's elite action.

Viewers can expect the unmistakable voice of Richard Hoiles delivering play-by-play commentary. A Racing TV stalwart with over two decades calling races at major festivals, Hoiles's encyclopedic knowledge and vivid descriptions capture the drama of every furlong. His career accolades include multiple awards for commentary excellence, ensuring York's sprints and stakes come alive on screen.

The punditry lineup features Jason Weaver and Adele Mulrennan, offering razor-sharp previews and post-race breakdowns. Weaver, a former top jockey who rode over 1,000 winners including the 1993 Epsom Derby on Commander in Chief, transitioned seamlessly to broadcasting. Now a beloved ITV analyst, his insider takes on trainer form and horse potential are gold for punters. Meanwhile, Adele Mulrennan, wife of trainer Jason Hart and sister to jockey Paul Mulrennan, brings fresh northern racing nous. Her rising profile on ITV stems from astute observations drawn from family ties in the sport.

On-the-ground reporting comes courtesy of Rishi Persad and Luke Harvey. Persad, a versatile broadcaster with BBC and Channel 4 roots, excels in paddock interviews and trackside updates, his charm resonating with fans worldwide. Luke Harvey, the ex-jockey turned pundit, adds colour with his riding experience—over 1,000 winners—and humorous, relatable insights, a hit since joining ITV in 2017.

The day's racing kicks off at 13:45 with the Sky Bet ebfstallions.com Novice Stakes (Class 2, 6f, 2yo, £20,616 to the winner), featuring promising sorts like Clash Of Hearts (A Keatley), Craven Force (Craig Lidster) and Cut A Dash (R Hannon) among 23 runners on good to firm ground. The Lindum York Handicap (5f, Class 2) and Oakmere Homes Hambleton Handicap (7f 192yds, Class 2) ramp up the sprint excitement, while the British Stallion Studs EBF Westow Stakes (Listed, Class 1, 5f, 3yo, £39,697 winner's prize) at 16:40 showcases speed stars. For full racecards and entries, visit the official York Racecourse site.

York's Dante Festival is a cornerstone of the Flat season, drawing crowds to its historic course known for fair, galloping tracks. With showers forecast but good to firm in places (GoingStick 5.8), expect fast-paced battles ideal for precocious juveniles and seasoned handicappers. Punters eyeing value should note last year's novice winner First Legion and the sprint form from Pride Of Arras.

Don't miss this unmissable card—ITV's coverage ensures seamless access for British fans via free-to-air channels, while global viewers can stream on ITVX. Whether backing Karl Burke runners like Waasil or Richard Hannon's duo, the expert team's blend of heritage and analysis elevates the experience. Secure your spot in front of the telly for York's Day 2 masterclass.

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Article generated: 12 May 2026, 14:01 GMT