The Seven Network has confirmed the return of veteran broadcaster Matt White, marking a homecoming ahead of what the network is positioning as a major year for sport in 2026.
White rejoins Seven Network in a new cross-platform role spanning 7NEWS Sydney and 7SPORT, following more than a decade away from the network where he previously became a familiar face to Australian audiences.
A key role in Seven’s expanded NRL plans
As part of the appointment, White will play a central role in Seven’s expanded NRL coverage, delivering analysis and commentary across nightly 7NEWS bulletins nationwide.
He will also feature prominently in Seven’s exclusive coverage of the Rugby League World Cup 2026, taking place in October and November.
In addition, White will contribute to the network’s new program, NRL Agenda Setters, which aims to connect fans with breaking news and in-depth analysis shaping the game.
White is set to return to the 7NEWS Sydney sports desk on Sunday, 18 January, before shifting focus to the start of the 2026 NRL season.
A reunion in the Sydney newsroom
White’s return also reunites him with 7NEWS Sydney sports anchor Mel McLaughlin, with the pair having worked together more than a decade ago.
“It’s a huge privilege to be re-joining Seven at such an exciting time for Rugby League,” White said. “7NEWS is home to the best newsmakers in the business and I’m genuinely pumped to be part of what’s next for the network’s NRL coverage.
“Jumping into Seven’s Rugby League World Cup 2026 coverage later this year is the icing on the cake. I can’t wait to get started and connect passionate footy fans with the sharpest insights and stories from across the game.”
Seven executives welcome the ‘homecoming’
Seven’s Director of News and Current Affairs, Ray Kuka, described White’s return as a significant addition to the newsroom.
“Matt’s return to Seven is a homecoming for one of the most respected voices in Australian sport,” Kuka said. “His reputation, knowledge and energy make him the perfect fit, while his deep understanding of the NRL, combined with his ability to cut through the noise and explain the game with clarity and authority, will strengthen our formidable newsroom.”
Seven’s Director of Network Sport, Chris Jones, added: “Matt is smart, dynamic and insightful in the way he covers the game. Bringing him into the fold across 7NEWS, our Rugby League World Cup 2026 coverage and our wider NRL programming is a huge coup for Seven and for fans.”
McLaughlin also welcomed the move, saying: “We’re so excited to have Matty back in the Sydney newsroom. We go way back, and I know how much he absolutely loves it. He’s a huge asset, and we’re lucky – easily one of the best in the business.”
A career spanning three decades
White is one of Australia’s most experienced broadcasters, with a career spanning more than 30 years across print, radio and television. He began at The Manly Daily before moving into radio and then television, eventually spending a decade at Seven.
During that time, he anchored coverage of the Athens, Torino and Beijing Olympic Games, hosted Today Tonight, fronted Seven’s motorsport broadcasts and led major live events including the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Catherine Middleton.
He later held senior management roles, including Head of Sport at Network Ten.