Landon Donovan cites John Smoltz and Greg Olsen as major influences
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 4:30 PM
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
Landon Donovan, preparing for the 2026 World Cup broadcasts, named former MLB pitcher John Smoltz and NFL tight end Greg Olsen as his main influences in sports broadcasting. He praised both for their ability to explain the game through a player's perspective. Donovan acknowledged the challenge of transitioning from player to analyst and expressed his commitment to provide insights that enhance viewer understanding. He will call matches alongside Ian Darke, with heightened expectations for Fox’s coverage.
- •Donovan aims to emulate Smoltz and Olsen's analytical styles.
- •He began his broadcasting career in 2013 on FS1.
- •Donovan will serve as an analyst during the 2026 World Cup.
- •Fox's coverage will be scrutinized by the American soccer audience.
- 4:30 PMYahoo Sports — Landon Donovan names John Smoltz, Greg Olsen as his two biggest broadcasting influences
"Landon Donovan spent his playing career helping define soccer in the United States. Now, as the World Cup comes to American soil, he’ll be trying to define it for viewers instead. The two identities don’t always go hand in hand. In soccer, as in every sport, being great at the game and being great at…
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