Katie Shanahan: The Rising Star of Sports Broadcasting
In the ever-evolving world of sports broadcasting, few names have shone as brightly in recent years as Katie Shanahan. Known for her energy, professionalism, and ability to connect with audiences, she has established herself as a trusted sports presenter and event host across some of the world’s biggest broadcasting networks. From ITV and Sky Sports to talkSPORT, Stan Sport Australia, FOX Sports, and CBS, Shanahan has become an international voice and face of sport.
This article takes an in-depth look at her career journey, achievements, education, and recognition, offering a comprehensive profile of one of Britain’s most promising broadcasting talents.
Early Life and Education
Katie Shanahan’s passion for sport was evident from a young age. She represented England Hockey at U16, U18, and U21 levels, displaying the discipline, resilience, and dedication required to succeed at the highest level. Her strong foundation in sport not only helped her develop as an athlete but also gave her an insider’s perspective on the challenges faced by professional players.
Her academic journey began at Loughborough University, one of the UK’s most prestigious institutions for sport. She studied Geography (BSc), graduating in 2014 with a 2:1. During her time at Loughborough, she remained deeply involved in sport and student media, playing for the university’s Ladies Hockey 1st team, representing GB Universities Handball, and contributing actively to Loughborough Students’ Media.
Recognising her passion for journalism and broadcasting, she pursued a Master’s degree in Sports Journalism at St Mary’s University, Twickenham, graduating in 2020 with Distinction. This academic training combined with her sporting background laid the groundwork for her successful career in the media industry.
Career Beginnings: BBC and Early Roles
Katie Shanahan’s career started with Input Media (2014–2017), where she worked as a production coordinator on major sporting projects including the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Rugby World Cup, UEFA competitions, and the FA Cup. This behind-the-scenes experience gave her a strong understanding of media production and event management.
She then joined the BBC, where she spent more than five years honing her craft across both radio and television. From BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Radio 4 to BBC Sport TV, Shanahan quickly became a familiar presence.
Highlights of her time at the BBC included:
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Broadcasting to millions on BBC World News and BBC One.
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Reporting live on location for major sports stories, including Manchester City’s UEFA ban.
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Producing original journalism, such as her widely praised feature on how menstrual cycles affect performance and injury risks in female athletes.
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Presenting for BBC Radio 5 Live, delivering engaging, accurate, and fast-paced bulletins.
Her time at the BBC established her as a trusted broadcaster with a sharp journalistic eye and an engaging presenting style.
Katie Shanahan at Sky Sports
In 2017, Katie Shanahan joined Sky Sports, a move that marked the beginning of her rise to national prominence.
She became a regular reporter for Soccer Saturday, one of the most popular football programmes in the UK. Her updates, delivered live from stadiums across the country, brought colour and excitement to fans every weekend. Impressively, she has reported from 78 out of 92 league stadiums in England and Wales, giving her unparalleled insight into the domestic game.
From 2021 to 2024, Shanahan was also a Sky Sports News presenter, anchoring coverage of some of the world’s biggest sporting events, including the World Cup Final, Carabao Cup Final, and the first day of the Ashes. She also played a key role in announcing the EFL fixtures for the 2023/24 season.
Her versatility allowed her to move seamlessly between live presenting, in-depth reporting, and interviews with players and managers, making her one of Sky’s most valuable freelance talents.
ITV Presenter: A Lead Role in Football
Katie Shanahan’s career has continued to flourish at ITV, where she has taken on some of her most high-profile roles.
She has been ITV’s lead England reporter during the Women’s Euros 2025 and the 2023 Women’s World Cup, presenting live from dressing rooms, player tunnels, and pitchside with football legends such as Ian Wright, Emma Hayes, and Jill Scott.
Her responsibilities have included conducting key pre- and post-match interviews, anchoring live coverage of EFL, FA Cup, La Liga, and Lionesses games, and fronting the weekly EFL Highlights Show. Her growing prominence was underlined by her appearance in ITV’s Subway advert for Euro 2025.
Expanding International Horizons: Stan Sport, FOX, CBS, and Optus
Katie Shanahan’s reach extends far beyond the UK.
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With Stan Sport in Australia, she has presented coverage of the Premier League, Champions League, and Europa League, often reporting pitchside with special guests and at Champions League finals.
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In 2025, she worked with FOX Sports during the Women’s Euros Final, providing live pitchside coverage for the England v Spain clash.
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She also presented for CBS Sports in the United States, appearing on Morning Footy in March 2025.
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With Optus Sport, she served as a key presenter at the Men’s Euros 2023 in Germany and as Lead England Reporter for the 2023 Women’s World Cup, bringing fans exclusive updates from inside stadiums.
These international assignments highlight her adaptability and appeal to global audiences.
talkSPORT and Radio Success
In January 2024, Shanahan joined talkSPORT as an Early Sports Breakfast Presenter, hosting from 5–6am and contributing to the main talkSPORT Breakfast until 9am.
She was also part of the SJA Award-winning team that delivered talkSPORT’s first-ever coverage of the Paris Olympics, reporting across all sports and contributing to shows throughout the tournament.
Her radio experience complements her television work, reinforcing her versatility and broadening her connection with audiences.
Age and Personal Life
Unlike many high-profile broadcasters, Katie Shanahan keeps her personal life private. While her exact age has not been officially disclosed, her academic and career timeline suggests she is in her early 30s.
There is no public information regarding a husband or partner, as she has chosen to focus her public profile on her career achievements.
Honours and Awards
Katie Shanahan’s broadcasting talent has been recognised by several awards and commendations, including:
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Highly Commended – “Ones to Watch” on Air Category at the Sports Journalism Awards (2019).
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Best Non-Music Show at the Roundhouse Radio Awards (2015).
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Highly Commended – Best On Screen Female at the National Student Television Awards (2014).
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Best On Screen Personality at Loughborough Students’ Media Awards (2014).
These accolades reflect her dedication, talent, and rising profile in the broadcasting industry.
Conclusion
Katie Shanahan has carved out a remarkable career as a sports presenter and event host, working with some of the world’s biggest broadcasters. From her early days at the BBC to her prominent roles at Sky Sports, ITV, talkSPORT, and international outlets such as Stan Sport and CBS, she has consistently impressed with her professionalism and ability to deliver compelling coverage of major sporting events.
With her blend of journalistic expertise, live presenting skills, and international experience, Katie Shanahan is well on her way to becoming one of the most recognisable and respected voices in sports broadcasting worldwide.
