talkSPORT: News UK Station Navigates AM Reductions and Premier League Drama
London, 10 February 2026 – talkSPORT, the world’s largest sports radio station, continues to dominate the digital broadcasting landscape while managing a strategic transition away from traditional analogue frequencies. Owned by News UK, the station is currently at the centre of major sporting narratives, including a heated Premier League title race and significant transfer speculation involving top-flight clubs.
Broadcasting Evolution and Infrastructure
In a move reflecting the UK’s shifting radio consumption habits, talkSPORT has proposed reducing its national AM coverage. The station intends to decommission seven of its 18 AM transmitters, a move that would adjust its analogue reach from 92% to 88.9% of the UK adult population. This strategy aligns with recent data showing that analogue audience shares have dipped to approximately 25.5%, with News UK services now positioned as the most digitally focused broadcasters in the country.
Despite these reductions, talkSPORT maintains its high-power transmission from the Droitwich station on 1053 kHz, which remains receivable in parts of Europe. The network continues to expand its digital footprint via DAB, Freeview, and various satellite platforms.
Key Station Facts
The following table outlines the current corporate and technical status of the talkSPORT network as of February 2026.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Parent Company | News UK (Subsidiary of News Corp) |
| Acquisition Value | £220 million (Wireless Group purchase) |
| Primary AM Frequencies | 1089 kHz and 1053 kHz |
| Sister Station | talkSPORT 2 (Digital Only) |
| Licence Authority | Ofcom (Broadcasting Act 1990) |
| Digital Platforms | DAB, Sky, Freeview, Global Player |
Recent Headlines and On-Air Clashes
The station has seen a surge in engagement following a series of high-profile interviews and controversial match reactions:
- Wilder vs Jordan: Heavyweight boxer Deontay Wilder reportedly stormed out of the talkBOXING studio following a heated exchange with presenter Simon Jordan regarding Tyson Fury.
- Title Race Debate: Pundits Michael Owen and Noel Gallagher have sparked debate on-air, with Owen suggesting Liverpool and Manchester City have “handed” the Premier League title to Arsenal, who currently sit six points clear.
- Managerial Pressure: talkSPORT has provided extensive coverage of Eddie Howe’s situation at Newcastle United, with the manager admitting he would resign if he felt he was no longer the right fit for the club.
- Transfer Exclusives: The station reports that Brighton captain Lewis Dunk rejected a significant move to Nottingham Forest in the final week of the transfer window out of loyalty to the Seagulls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns talkSPORT?
talkSPORT is owned by Wireless Group, which is a subsidiary of News UK (part of Rupert Murdoch’s News Corp). It was acquired as part of a £220 million deal that also included Virgin Radio.
Is talkSPORT closing down its AM signal?
The station is not closing entirely on AM but has applied to Ofcom to turn off seven of its 18 transmitters. This is part of a broader industry shift toward DAB and digital streaming, as analogue listenership continues to decline.
Where can I listen to talkSPORT 2?
Unlike the main station, talkSPORT 2 is a digital-only service. It can be accessed via DAB digital radio, online via the talkSPORT website, or through the talkSPORT and Global Player apps.
What are the main criticisms of the station?
According to public insights and listener reviews, some audience members have expressed concerns regarding the “overly opinionated” nature of certain presenters. Additionally, rival broadcasters have previously challenged the station’s balance of sports coverage versus general news requirements.