Jon Champion

At the start of the 1995/96 season, John Motson took a sabbatical and Jon began working as a television commentator.

His first Match of the Day commentary was Sweden versus Japan in the Umbro Cup in June 1995 at the City Ground, Nottingham. His first Match of the Day Premier League commentary was in September 1995 at Highfield Road for Coventry City versus Nottingham Forest.

During his time at the BBC, Jon covered a wide range of sports including football, rugby league and Test Match cricket. He has also worked on three Olympics and three football World Cups.

As one of ITV's key commentators Jon has commentated on European Championships, UEFA Champions League and Premiership games for the network.

Jon's career in broadcasting began in unusual circumstances. Aged 18 he had just completed a notable innings for a club cricket side in York when the local BBC radio station interviewed him. At the time BBC Radio York was on the lookout for good broadcasting voices and signed Jon to its sports department.

He combined his communication and media studies degree at a Leeds University college with working as the Scarborough reporter for local radio.

Jon lives in Oxfordshire with his wife Anna and their three children.