For the second straight day, NBC Sports has announced a major NASCAR hire. In other news, ESPN has named a slew of World Cup analysts, and two “Anchorman” actors will appear in-character on Thursday’s 6 PM ET “SportsCenter.”
NBC Names Allen Lead NASCAR Voice
- A day after announcing the hire of Jeff Burton, NBC Sports Group announced Wednesday that Rick Allen has been named the lead voice of NASCAR coverage on NBC and NBCSN starting in 2015. Allen, who currently calls NASCAR Truck Series and ARCA races for Fox Sports 1, will work alongside Burton in the broadcast booth. (NBC Sports Group Press Box)
Twellman, Ballack, Solari, Join ESPN World Cup Team
- Along with the returning Alexi Lalas and Steve McManaman, ESPN has named Michael Ballack and Santiago Solari studio analysts for coverage of next year’s World Cup on the ESPN family of networks. The network has also tapped lead MLS and U.S. national team analyst Taylor Twellman a match analyst for the tournament. Twellman, Ballack and Solari will each be working their first World Cup for U.S. television. (ESPN Media Zone)
“Anchorman” Actors to Host “SportsCenter” In-Character
- Comedian Will Ferrell will co-host Thursday’s 6 PM ET edition of “SportsCenter” as “Anchorman” character Ron Burgundy, ESPN announced earlier this week. The news was first reported by The Big Lead. In addition to Ferrell, “Anchorman” co-star David Koechner will also appear on Thursday’s show as character Champ Kind. (ESPN Front Row)
