Channel 4 viewers expressed fury on Thursday evening after the network shortened its evening news bulletin to make way for Crufts 2026, the annual dog competition. The programme, typically airing from 7pm to 8pm, concluded at 7.30pm to accommodate coverage of the event, which was hosted for the first time by Claudia Winkleman alongside Clare Balding.
Disgruntled viewers took to social media to voice their complaints. One wrote on X: '#c4news Poor decision from @Channel4 to reduce news coverage at this time for Crufts.' Another commented: 'Donald Trump bombed Iran, but #Crufts is more important.... #C4News #crufts2026.' A third added: 'They shortened the news so people can watch a bunch of overbred dogs prance around the NEC?'
Crufts 2026 is being held at Birmingham's NEC from Thursday, March 5, through to Sunday, March 8. The competition brings together pedigree breeds to demonstrate agility and speed. Winkleman, expressing her excitement about her new role, said: 'I absolutely love dogs and there is literally nowhere else on earth I'd rather be.' Balding added: 'I'm really looking forward to working with Claudia, who is a fantastic addition to the team.'
The full schedule for Crufts on Channel 4 includes broadcasts on Thursday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm, Friday from 3pm to 4pm, Saturday from 2pm to 6pm and 7pm to 9pm, and Sunday from 3.30pm to 6.30pm and 7pm to 9pm. Live, uninterrupted coverage of the main arena is also available for free on the Official Crufts YouTube channel.
