NBC Sports has a new face headed to Churchill Downs. John Fanta will join NBC’s coverage of the 2026 Kentucky Derby on Saturday, May 2.
The broadcast begins at 2:30 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock. It marks Fanta’s first-ever trip to the Kentucky Derby.
Fanta will work as an on-site reporter, primarily stationed in the infield at Churchill Downs. His role focuses on capturing the electric atmosphere building toward the “Run for the Roses.”
NBC Sports supervising producer Lindsay Schanzer made the announcement and praised the fit.
“We’re excited to have John join our coverage at Churchill Downs, where his unbridled enthusiasm and effusive personality will be a perfect match with the spectators enjoying the racing and revelry from the infield,” said Schanzer.
Fanta sounds genuinely fired up about the assignment.
“There is simply nothing like the Kentucky Derby, and to join a team of horse racing legends and Emmy winners in NBC’s 26th presentation of an event that stands in a class of its own is thrilling and humbling,” Fanta said.
His Derby week starts Friday, May 1. Fanta joins Kentucky Oaks Day coverage at 4 p.m. ET on Peacock and NBCSN. He continues through primetime for the Kentucky Oaks at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.
“It’s been an amazing first year with NBC Sports. I’m excited and honored to be taking on another new challenge and heading to Churchill Downs for the 152nd chapter of the longest continuously held sporting event in America,” said Fanta.
Fanta joined NBC Sports in August 2025 as lead BIG EAST basketball play-by-play voice. Moreoever, he also covered Big Ten, Big 12 basketball, and college football. In 2026, he made his NBA play-by-play debut, calling the Minnesota Timberwolves-Portland Trail Blazers game.
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