Claudia Winkleman Secures Top Role as Crufts 2026 Presenter
Former Strictly Come Dancing star Claudia Winkleman has been announced as a new presenter for the 2026 edition of Crufts, the world's largest and most prestigious dog show. The 54-year-old will join the Channel 4 broadcasting team for the four-day event, which takes place this March at Birmingham's NEC arena.
Exciting New Addition to the Crufts Line-Up
Winkleman will work alongside veteran presenter Clare Balding, who has led Crufts coverage since 2010, as well as fellow hosts Ellie Simmonds and Radzi Chinyanganya. The self-confessed dog enthusiast expressed her enthusiasm for the new role, stating: "I absolutely love dogs and there is literally nowhere else on earth I'd rather be."
In her characteristic humorous style, Winkleman added that she is already fully prepared for the assignment with "a pocket rammed with treats." Clare Balding welcomed her colleague as a "fantastic addition" to the team, noting that Winkleman will bring a unique sense of style and "an intelligent curiosity" to the broadcast.
Career Transition Following Strictly Departure
This career move follows Winkleman's decision to quit Strictly Come Dancing alongside co-host Tess Daly at the conclusion of the 2025 series. Despite leaving the ballroom, she remains a prominent figure at the BBC, where she continues to host the successful reality series The Traitors.
Last month, Winkleman fronted the fourth series of The Traitors, which saw contestants Rachel Duffy and Stephen Libby make history as the first pair to share the £95,750 prize pot in the show's UK run.
Upcoming Projects and Channel 4 Coverage
Beyond her Crufts commitment, Winkleman is preparing to launch her own brand-new chat show on BBC One this spring. Titled The Claudia Winkleman Show, the series is being produced by the team behind The Graham Norton Show, promising engaging celebrity interviews and entertainment.
Channel 4's comprehensive Crufts coverage will feature over 20 hours of live action from March 5-8, including popular events like agility competitions and flyball demonstrations. Expert commentary will be provided by Jim Rosenthal and Frank Kane, while resident vet Dr Paul Manktelow offers essential welfare advice throughout the broadcast.
Pete Andrews, head of sport at Channel 4, welcomed Winkleman to what he described as the "brilliant gang" of presenters. The broadcaster continues its long-standing tradition of celebrating canine excellence, culminating in the prestigious Best in Show title announcement on Sunday, March 8.
