The FIFA World Cup returns this Fall from Qatar and when it does, FOX Sports will have barrier-breaking Jacqui Oatley on the call.
Today, FOX Sports announced that Oatley will be a part of the network’s coverage of the event.
Oatley called the World Cup matches in summer of 2019 in France for the host broadcaster’s world feed. The year before she was a host for ITV’s FIFA World Cup coverage in Russia. Oatley also hosted the BBC’s 2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup coverage in Canada. Before that, she provided play-by-play commentary for BBC Radio 5 Live at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
In over 20 years of broadcasting experience, she accomplished a few firsts as well. In 2005, she became the first woman to call a match on British network radio. Then 2007 she was the first female commentator on the BBC One’s flagship show, Match of the Day.
Most recently, she has commentated on the UEFA Champions League and is currently lead play-by-play announcer for Sky Sports’ Barclays FA Women’s Super League coverage. She also calls Premier League matches for Sky Sports and the world feed.
“I’m so excited to be joining FOX Sports at this year’s World Cup,” said Oatley. “This will be my 16th major football tournament, and I’ve loved every minute of working on those events around the world. Teaming up with FOX Sports will be a new experience for me, and I’ve been told by various colleagues what a brilliant group of people they are to work with.”
David Neal, Executive Producer of FIFA World Cup on FOX and Vice President of Production for FOX Sports, welcomed Oatley.
“Jacqui’s passion for the game and experience in calling matches at the highest level is truly remarkable and as we began evaluating play-by-play announcers, we knew we wanted Jacqui to be part of our team,” said Neal. “We’re thrilled to have Jacqui joining FOX Sports in Qatar and look forward to hearing her insights when the tournament begins on Monday, November 21.”
Oatley joins returning lead play-by-play announcer John Strong as FOX Sports commentators for the World Cup.
