Ian Irving

Ian Irving is a senior football reporter for The Athletic and a highly experienced event host who specialises in bringing warmth, professionalism, and sporting insight to corporate and charity functions. With a proven track record spanning cabaret performances, cruise liner entertainment, his own television show, and countless award ceremonies and conferences, Ian has shared stages with sporting legends including Sir Geoff Hurst, Gary Lineker, and Frank Bruno. His engaging style and deep knowledge of sport help audiences connect, laugh, and enjoy memorable events that run seamlessly whilst raising the energy and profile of any occasion.

From cruise liner stages to the press box at some of football's most iconic grounds, Ian Irving has built a career that seamlessly blends world-class entertainment with authoritative sports journalism. As a senior football reporter for The Athletic, he delivers the insight and access that define modern sports coverage, whilst his decades of experience as a compere, cabaret performer, and host have made him one of the most versatile voices in the corporate and sporting events industry. His own television show, Strand & Deliver, showcased his natural ability to entertain and engage audiences, a skill he has refined across countless award ceremonies, conferences, product launches, and charity functions around the globe.

Ian's credibility stems from both his professional achievements and the relationships he has cultivated with some of sport's most celebrated figures. He has shared stages and billings with Sir Geoff Hurst, Martin Peters, Jimmy Greaves, Gary Lineker, Mike Atherton, Frank Bruno, Lennox Lewis, Henry Cooper, and Ron Atkinson, many of whom have become personal friends. This access and rapport enable him to offer audiences not just polished delivery but genuine sporting insight and anecdotes that resonate. His commitment to charitable work is equally impressive, supporting organisations including the RSPCA, Little Haven Hospice, Cancer Research, the Anthony Nolan Trust, the Wooden Spoon Society, and Sparks. As Captain of the Variety Club's Golfing Society and a member of the Grand Order of Water Rats, Ian demonstrates a sustained dedication to giving back through entertainment and sport.

Ian tailors every appearance to the specific needs of his clients, whether hosting a gala dinner, linking a conference, or energising a corporate golf day. His ability to read a room, adjust his tone, and keep proceedings flowing with warmth and professionalism ensures that events run seamlessly from start to finish. Audiences leave not only entertained but genuinely connected to the occasion, with a sense that they have been part of something memorable and well executed. Ian's dual expertise in journalism and live performance means he understands both the importance of preparation and the value of spontaneity, delivering events that feel polished yet personal, informative yet fun, and always focused on creating lasting impact for everyone involved.