Chris Kamara: The Unbelievable Journey of a Football Icon

LONDON, 24 January 2026 – Chris ‘Kammy’ Kamara MBE is a figure who transcends football. From a hard-tackling midfielder to a cult-hero broadcaster, his journey has been defined by infectious enthusiasm. In recent years, however, his public battle with the neurological conditions apraxia and dyspraxia has revealed a new depth to the national treasure, showcasing remarkable resilience and a determination to help others.

From Park End to the Pitch

Born on Christmas Day 1957 in Middlesbrough, Kamara’s early life on the Park End council estate was marked by hardship and racial abuse. At 16, he joined the Royal Navy at his father’s insistence, a move that nearly ended his football dreams before they began. However, while playing for the Navy team, he was spotted by Portsmouth manager Ian St John and signed in November 1974 after the club paid a £200 buy-out fee.

His professional career spanned over 650 games across 11 clubs, including notable spells at Swindon Town, Brentford, Leeds United – where he won the Second Division title in 1990 – and Bradford City. Known for his committed style, he later moved into management, famously guiding Bradford City to promotion via the play-offs in 1996 before a brief stint at Stoke City.

A Broadcasting Phenomenon

Kamara’s second act made him a household name. Joining Sky Sports in 1992, he became the irrepressible heart of Soccer Saturday for 24 years. His excitable match reports, camaraderie with host Jeff Stelling, and iconic catchphrase “Unbelievable, Jeff!” cemented his status as a broadcasting legend. His work extended beyond football, co-presenting ITV’s Ninja Warrior UK with Ben Shephard and appearing on countless entertainment shows.

In recognition of his services to football, anti-racism, and charity – including his long-term patronage of Marie Curie – Kamara was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2023 New Year Honours, receiving his award from the Prince of Wales at Windsor Castle.

The Health Battle and Public Resilience

In 2022, Kamara’s world changed when he was diagnosed with speech apraxia, a neurological disorder affecting the brain’s ability to plan and programme the muscle movements needed for speech. The condition, coupled with an underactive thyroid and dyspraxia (which affects balance), forced him to step back from his main Sky Sports role.

He has since been remarkably open about the struggle, documenting his journey in the ITV documentary Lost For Words and his autobiography. He revealed the condition led to dark moments for his mental health, stating he saw his life “flash before my eyes,” but emphasised the importance of seeking help and speaking out.

Key Facts: Chris Kamara

Ongoing Recovery and New Chapters

Kamara’s recovery has been a proactive journey. He has travelled to Mexico for specialised treatment and engages in intensive speech therapy. In a positive update in September 2025, he told an audience at the National Diversity Awards that he felt “through to the other side” of his brain injury, thanking the public for their kindness.

His speech has improved sufficiently for a emotional return to live football commentary on Amazon Prime’s Boxing Day coverage in 2024. Furthermore, he has taken up singing with a Bradford City supporters’ choir for a BBC series, noting that the act helps with speech fluency as a form of rehabilitation.

Now more selective with his work due to ongoing balance issues, Kamara focuses his energy on charity and using his platform. He has partnered with friend Ben Shephard for a live tour and continues to advocate for greater awareness and support for those with speech and neurological conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is apraxia of speech?

Apraxia of speech (AOS) is a neurological motor speech disorder. It affects the brain’s ability to plan and sequence the precise movements needed for clear speech. It is not caused by muscle weakness but by a disruption in the brain’s messaging system. People with AOS know what they want to say but struggle to coordinate the mouth movements to say it correctly or consistently.

Is Chris Kamara still working on television?

Yes, though on a more selective basis. After leaving his main role at Sky Sports in 2022, he has returned for guest appearances, such as the Boxing Day 2024 football coverage. He also participates in other projects like the BBC’s Bantam of the Opera and his live tour with Ben Shephard, managing his workload around his health.

What was Chris Kamara’s famous catchphrase?

His most iconic phrase is “Unbelievable, Jeff!”, exclaimed during his match reports on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday to host Jeff Stelling. Another memorable moment was his confused “I don’t know, Jeff!” when he missed a red card incident during a Portsmouth match, which became a viral sensation.