Claudia Winkleman, the celebrated presenter known for her roles on The Traitors and Strictly Come Dancing, has secured a new high-profile presenting position. She will join the broadcasting team for the 2026 edition of the prestigious Crufts dog show, which will be aired on Channel 4. This announcement comes just months after her departure from Strictly Come Dancing in October, marking a significant career move for the Bafta-winning broadcaster.
Exciting New Role for Winkleman
Winkleman, aged 54, expressed immense enthusiasm for her new role, stating, "I absolutely love dogs and there is literally nowhere else on earth I’d rather be. I can’t wait to join this incredible team and I’m so grateful to Channel 4 for allowing me to be part of it. I have a pocket rammed with treats." Her passion for canines and presenting is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the coverage.
Presenting Line-Up and Team Dynamics
She will co-host Channel 4's comprehensive coverage alongside established presenters Clare Balding, Ellie Simmonds, and Radzi Chinyanganya. The four-day event is scheduled to commence on March 5, 2026, at Birmingham's National Exhibition Centre (NEC). Clare Balding welcomed Winkleman to the team, saying, "I’m really looking forward to working with Claudia, who is a fantastic addition. She really loves dogs and will bring an additional element of fun, as well as an intelligent curiosity and, of course, style."
Channel 4's Commitment to Crufts
Channel 4 has been the broadcaster for Crufts since 2010, and the event holds a special place for its viewers. Pete Andrews, head of sport at Channel 4, highlighted this, noting, "Crufts holds a special place in the hearts of Channel 4 viewers. There is no other event like it, and it is such a thrill to be welcoming Claudia to our brilliant gang of presenters and adding to our celebration of all things dog." The coverage will also feature commentators Jim Rosenthal and Frank Kane, along with resident vet Dr Paul Manktelow providing expert advice on dog care.
Event Details and Coverage
Crufts, organized by The Royal Kennel Club, is recognized as the largest dog show of its kind globally. Viewers can anticipate extensive coverage of various events, including breed judging, agility competitions, flyball, and heelwork to music, culminating in the highly anticipated Best in Show competition. The show will be broadcast on Channel 4 and More4 from Thursday, March 5 to Sunday, March 8, 2026.
Winkleman's Recent Career Moves
This new role follows Winkleman's exit from Strictly Come Dancing after more than a decade, where she described her time as "an absolute dream." Additionally, the BBC has announced The Claudia Winkleman Show, set to air in spring 2026, which will feature celebrity interviews in front of a live studio audience. These developments underscore her continued prominence in the broadcasting industry.
Overall, Claudia Winkleman's addition to the Crufts presenting team is set to enhance Channel 4's coverage, bringing her signature style and genuine love for dogs to one of the world's most beloved canine events.
