Brazilian broadcaster SBT is attempting to recruit prominent Globo sports commentator Caio Ribeiro for its 2026 FIFA World Cup coverage. Tiago Leifert, a friend of the ex-player, has been trying to convince him to switch networks after 18 years in his career. The tournament will be aired on SBT with narration by Galvão Bueno.
Caio Ribeiro, a former soccer player and currently one of Globo's top sports commentators, has become SBT's latest hiring target. The broadcaster owned by Silvio Santos aims to bolster its team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup coverage, which it will air. The transmission will feature the iconic narration by Galvão Bueno, who is returning to SBT for the event.
Tiago Leifert, a presenter and close friend of Ribeiro, is playing a key role in the negotiations. Leifert, who also spent years at Globo, is persuading the commentator to consider the switch after 18 years in his career at the Rio-based network. The offer comes amid fierce competition among broadcasters for major sports events, particularly with FIFA's 2026 World Cup rights split between SBT and other networks.
Ribeiro, renowned for his precise football analysis including on the Brazilian national team, could bring valuable expertise to SBT's lineup. There is no official confirmation on the hiring yet, but the talks signal a significant effort by the station to assemble a competitive team. This move underscores the World Cup's importance for TV viewership in Brazil.