John Hunt commentary: watch UK and Ireland horse racing from BBC Radio 5 Live

The UK and Ireland Racing event of the Ascot programme takes place on 31 October 2026, with competition clock starting at 13:00 UK time. The commentary will be provided by John Hunt, whose voice has become one of the most recognisable in British horse racing. For those following along, BBC Radio 5 Live carries the running commentary throughout the event.

The man behind the microphone

Born in 1965, John Hunt is a British sports commentator who most often provides racing commentary. Beyond horse racing, he is the regular commentary provider for the BBC's coverage of Winter Olympic Games' opening ceremonies and sliding events, as well as for swimming at the Summer Olympic Games. As the lead horse racing commentator for BBC Radio 5 Live, his vivid descriptions have brought the biggest events to life, from Royal Ascot on the flat to the jumping highlights of the Cheltenham Festival and the Aintree Grand National.

Follow the action

As competition clock ticks over, the commentary from John Hunt will guide viewers through the proceedings on BBC Radio 5 Live. For background on his career and the commentary he brings to horse racing events, his profile is available on Wikipedia.

John Hunt (sports commentator) on Wikipedia

Article generated: 31 October 2026, 13:47 GMT