ITV Racing’s popular presenter Oli Bell is set to return to screens this weekend, bringing more thrilling racing coverage as he hosts the Shergar Cup at Ascot Racecourse on Saturday, 8 August. The annual event features some of the finest jockeys competing in a spirited contest.
Joining Oli in presenting duties are Kevin Blake, Hayley Turner, Rishi Persad, and Natalie Green, with commentary provided by Mark Johnson. ITV’s coverage this weekend will also include exciting races from Haydock and Newmarket.
While viewers recognise Oli as a familiar face at major racing events such as Royal Ascot, the Grand National, and the Cheltenham Festival, his journey into broadcasting began far from the racetrack. Raised in Somerset by his mother, Oli earned a drama scholarship and attended school in Peterborough, where he gained early experience in broadcasting. His school’s radio station gave him a start, and by the age of 15, he was hosting the breakfast show slot, laying the foundation for his future career.
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Oli’s early professional steps included reporting live from the Burghley Horse Trials and presenting at the Land Rover G4 Challenge and British Touring Car Championships. When he was just 18, he became an editorial assistant at Racing UK before moving in front of the camera to become a beloved presenter.
Racing runs in Oli’s blood. His father, Rupert Bell, is a well-known sports commentator with decades of experience in racing media. Moreover, his uncle, Michael Bell, is a Derby-winning trainer. A particularly memorable moment in Oli’s career occurred in 2017 at Royal Ascot when Michael secured a winner. Forgetting his role as a reporter, Oli enthusiastically celebrated as the horse crossed the finishing line.
The following day, Oli experienced an extraordinary encounter with Queen Elizabeth II, who recalled the previous day’s scene. “You’re the lunatic that ran on the track yesterday,” she remarked, to which Oli replied, “Yes I am.” Reflecting on the exchange, Oli described it as “like having a dream” and “completely bonkers.”
Oli’s connections to the racing world extend beyond his family. He previously dated ITV Racing colleague Francesca Cumani, daughter of renowned trainer Luca Cumani. Although they have since parted ways, they continue to collaborate professionally on ITV Racing broadcasts. The pair notably appeared together at ITV’s 2026 Showcase alongside their co-star Ed Chamberlin earlier this year.
Francesca married Australian international polo player Rob Archibald in 2014 and they have a son together. After their separation in 2018, Francesca pursued a relationship with Oli; however, they chose to separate just before the 2020 Cheltenham Festival.
For those eager to follow the latest racing events, ITV Racing is available to stream for free on ITVX.