Karl Ude-Martinez

Karl is also a professionally trained actor and accomplished polo player whose passion for performance and equestrian sports has been evident since childhood. With a rich equestrian background, Karl began his riding career almost before he could walk, competing on the show-jumping circuit at a young age. He later developed a love for eventing and team chasing, and it was during his school and university years that he discovered his passion for polo. Today, he not only plays polo professionally but also serves as an international commentator and TV host for prestigious tournaments and events worldwide, including CBS Sports and Global Polo TV.

Karl honed his acting skills at the East 15 Acting School in London, performing both nationally and internationally in theatre productions for the Royal Shakespeare Company, as well as on television and in feature films. His vibrant on-screen presence, combined with his passion and enthusiasm, has earned him international acclaim in the acting and presenting world.

As a freelance presenter, Karl has worked with renowned channels such as Sky Sports, Eurosport, Discovery, and Animal Planet, where he has interviewed top sports personalities and celebrities, including Pierce Brosnan, Tommy Lee Jones, and Bill Nighy. His extensive network within the polo community provides him with unique insights that enrich his commentary and presentations. Karl has also had the honor of working alongside the Royal Family, including Prince William and Prince Harry, hosting and compering their prestigious charity polo events.

Karl’s passion for history has led him to present numerous documentaries for channels such as the History Channel, including the award-winning series “Ancient Einsteins” and “Ancient Impossible,” as well as the six-part historical documentary series “Instruments of Death” for Yesterday Channel. He also presented two series of “Horsetails” for Discovery/Animal Planet, traveling the world to investigate unique events and stories connected with horses, from the gauchos in Argentina to the unique ‘Fish Race’ in Spain and France.

Karl has been a main presenter for Horse & Country TV, covering major events such as The Royal Show, Badminton Horse Trials, the London International Horse Show Olympia, and The British Open Show Jumping Championships. His versatility extends to the fashion world, where he has co-presented live fashion shows with hosts like Ruby Wax and Geoff Banks, and hosted high-profile events for brands like Wolford and Armani.

In addition to his extensive work in equestrian and fashion events, Karl has also presented rugby events for the BBC, ITV, and BT Sport, including the Heineken Cup at Twickenham. He played a significant role in promoting BT’s involvement in Olympic coaching for the young in preparation for the London 2012 Olympics, presenting their promotional corporate film across multimedia platforms.

A skilled horseman and all-around sportsman, Karl is also an avid skier and extreme sports enthusiast, always eager to learn new skills. As the director and show producer for his live entertainment company, Karl founded ‘The Knights of Middle England,’ a professional jousting stunt display team that has toured the UK and Europe for over 17 years, supplying horses and riders for the TV and film industry.

Karl’s adventures and travels have allowed him to utilise his language skills, speaking French, Italian, and some Spanish from his frequent trips to Argentina. With bags of charisma and charm, Karl is always ready to embrace new challenges and bring his unique energy to any presenting opportunity.

To book Event Host Karl Ude-Martinez, contact The Speakers Agency on +44(0)1332 810481 or email enquiries@thespeakersagency.com