In the world of sports broadcasting, it’s not just the athletes pulling in massive paychecks. The UK’s top TV sports presenters have become household names, influencing public opinion and commanding impressive salaries. Here’s a rundown of the highest-paid sports reporters in Britain—starting from number ten to the undisputed number one.
10. Clare Balding – £1 million
Philip Brookes / Shutterstock.com
Clare Balding has been a trusted face on British television for decades, covering everything from horse racing to the Olympics. Known for her warmth and professionalism, she was awarded an OBE in 2013 and continues to lead with her own show and Wimbledon coverage.
9. Jeff Stelling – £2 million
By NHS BSW ICB – YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oLwjbhcfgkY – View/save archived versions on archive.org and archive.today, CC BY 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=153016442
A legendary figure in football broadcasting, Jeff Stelling was the face of Gillette Soccer Saturday for nearly 30 years. Though he stepped down in 2023, he still hosts his own programs and co-presents talkSPORT’s breakfast show.
Former England international Alex Scott has made a major mark in broadcasting with her fearless journalism and sharp insight. Despite some recent setbacks, she remains a key figure on Football Focus and other BBC programs.
Laura Woods worked her way up from runner to one of the most respected hosts in UK sports media. She rose to prominence on talkSPORT and now leads TNT Sports’ Champions League coverage, in addition to presenting for ITV.
6. David Jones – £3 million
Photo: Sky UK Limited
A steady presence on Sky Sports since its inception, David Jones is often the glue holding high-profile football panels together. Beyond television, he also serves as a non-executive director for Sunderland AFC.
5. Mark Pougatch – £3.5 million
Photo: Greatbritishspeakers.co.uk
Mark Pougatch is ITV’s trusted voice for both football and rugby. After two decades at BBC Radio 5 Live, he transitioned seamlessly into TV, leading coverage of Champions League matches and England games with calm authority.
4. Gabby Logan – £4 million
Influential Photography / Shutterstock.com
Gabby Logan has been a cornerstone of BBC’s sports coverage since 2007, taking on everything from athletics to football tournaments. Her polished presence and versatility have earned her some of the network’s biggest assignments.
By PeeJay2K3 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=26641569
Known for his intelligence and wit, Mark Chapman hosts Match of the Day 2 and several major radio programs on BBC 5 Live. He’s set to play an even bigger role next season, which is expected to boost his earnings even further.
2. Kelly Cates – £8 million
Photo: Instagram.com
Kelly Cates, daughter of Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, has steadily climbed the ranks from Sky Sports News to Match of the Day. Her easy rapport with top pundits and natural screen presence make her a standout talent.
1. Gary Lineker – £30 million
Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com
Topping the list by a mile is Gary Lineker, the longtime face of Match of the Day. With decades in broadcasting and a salary that dwarfs the competition, Lineker is more than a host—he’s a television institution.
