Who is commentating on ITV1 for Epsom Downs: The Derby and where to watch

Match date: 6 June 2026

Epsom Downs: The Derby will be shown live on ITV1 with coverage also available on ITVX, STV, and STV Player, giving viewers across the UK and Ireland a major free-to-air route into one of the most significant flat-racing afternoons of the year. The Betfred Derby 2026 is scheduled for 4.00pm at Epsom Downs Racecourse, the centrepiece of the Derby Festival and the race most closely associated with the classic British racing calendar.[2][1]

The ITV Racing team for Derby Day features Ed Chamberlin and Francesca Cumani in the presenting roles, with Richard Hoiles as main commentator. Their line-up is completed by pundits Adele Mulrennan, Jason Weaver and Ruby Walsh, while reporters Matt Chapman, Oli Bell, Rishi Persad, Mick Fitzgerald and Brian Gleeson are set to bring paddock and trackside coverage from Epsom.[user prompt]

Ed Chamberlin has become the main face of ITV Racing since taking over the broadcaster’s flagship horse-racing coverage in 2017, having previously established himself as one of the most recognisable sports presenters in British television through Sky Sports. Francesca Cumani, meanwhile, has built a strong reputation as a presenter and analyst through her work on racing television in both Britain and Australia, where her on-air style has made her one of the sport’s best-known female broadcasters.[user prompt]

Richard Hoiles remains one of the most familiar voices in British racing commentary, widely respected for his precise, fast-paced race reading on major ITV meetings. Ruby Walsh, a multiple Irish champion jockey and former Grand National and Cheltenham Festival-winning rider, continues to be one of racing television’s most authoritative pundits because of his elite-level experience in the saddle. Jason Weaver, another established ITV analyst, also draws on a long career as a jockey and broadcaster, while Adele Mulrennan brings current-day riding insight and a strong practical understanding of the sport.[user prompt]

The reporter team adds depth to the broadcast. Matt Chapman is one of racing television’s most recognisable personalities, known for his energetic style and long association with live racing coverage, while Oli Bell and Rishi Persad are both highly experienced presenters and interviewers. Mick Fitzgerald, a former top jumps jockey turned broadcaster, is another trusted racing voice, and Brian Gleeson contributes additional Irish racing knowledge to a card that attracts attention on both sides of the Irish Sea.[user prompt]

For viewers planning ahead, The Jockey Club confirms that the Derby itself is due off at 4.00pm, while Racing TV’s racecard listing also places the Group 1 contest in that slot on Saturday 6 June at Epsom Downs.[2][1] That timing makes ITV’s afternoon coverage the key broadcast for anyone wanting the build-up, fashion, analysis and live race commentary in one place. More details on the racecourse and its flagship meeting can be found via The Jockey Club’s Derby Festival page.[2]

Article generated: 6 June 2026, 13:01 GMT