The versatile Rob Stone, who was part of the soccer team at ESPN, has made the move to Fox where he will serve as the network’s lead host. He will make his debut on the network’s live coverage of the Arsenal-Manchester United game, which will air prior to the NFC championship game at 10:30 a.m. on Jan. 22,. Stone will host all key soccer broadcasts on Fox, FX and Fox Soccer and discussed his new job.
What was the reason for the jump from ESPN to Fox?
Stone » “It was not easy because ESPN was like family to me. But it is clear to any soccer fan that Fox has become the home to the world’s best soccer. Their commitment to covering the Premier League, the UEFA Champions League and, of course, the World Cup 2018 and 2022 is amazing. I am also looking forward to working with my friend Eric Wynalda. He is an insightful and entertaining man who knows his soccer. There is no doubt American’s love quality soccer, and Fox proves that with their extensive coverage of the top leagues in the world, and I am honored and excited to be a part of it.”
What’s your new role?
Stone » “It really is a dream job for me because I hit the ground running with the Arsenal against Manchester United game on the 22nd, followed by studio coverage of “The Game Before the Game,” featuring Chelsea and Manchester United live from Stamford Bridge on Super Bowl Sunday [on] Feb. 5. Then later in the month, I will begin anchoring Fox Soccer’s UEFA Champions League coverage beginning with the Round of 16 on [Feb. 14]. That leads into Fox Soccer and FX coverage of the UEFA Champions League semifinals and Fox Sports’ coverage of the UEFA Champions League final this spring. So that is a full slate right off the bat.”
Examiner columnist Jim Williams is a seven-time Emmy Award-winning TV producer, director and writer. Check out his blog, Watch this!
