ESPN is bolstering its on-air talent as it prepares for a busy 2026 sports calendar. The network announced Friday the addition of sports journalist Karen Tapia, best known for her recent work with Amazon Prime Video covering Liga MX’s Chivas Guadalajara [[1]]. Tapia’s debut came earlier today on *SportsCenter*, signaling ESPN’s continued investment in complete soccer coverage and diverse broadcasting voices [[2]]. The move follows a accomplished run with Prime Video, where she provided sideline reporting and on-site access for the popular club [[3]].
ESPN has added a new face to its broadcasting team just as the 2026 season gets underway. The network announced the arrival of Karen Tapia, who transitions to ESPN after recently working with Amazon Prime Video covering Chivas Guadalajara.
The announcement was made via social media, where ESPN unveiled its newest team member.
Who is the newest addition to ESPN?
Karen Tapia most recently served as a sideline reporter for Amazon Prime Video’s coverage of Chivas, providing on-site access for away games.
Tapia joins ESPN as a new on-air personality | IG: @karentapia_a
ESPN officially announced Tapia’s arrival as a new on-air personality on social media, with her debut scheduled for Friday, January 16th, on SportsCenter. The announcement videos also revealed some of her personal preferences, including her favorite athlete: Cristiano Ronaldo.
In the comments section of the announcement, former Prime Video colleague Antonio Camacho offered his support, writing, “Vuela alto, rómpela como mereces, crack,” a message that was briefly misinterpreted by some viewers.
As part of the welcome content, Tapia herself posted a video inviting ESPN followers to tune in for her first appearance on SportsCenter, where she debuted alongside Ricardo Puig.
Fans will miss her
Just one week after announcing her departure from Amazon Prime Video’s Chivas coverage, fans of the Rebaño Sagrado have already expressed their sadness at seeing her leave the broadcasts of Chivas’ home games.
Farewell message from Enrique Noriega | Captura de Instagram
Similar to the warm welcome she received from ESPN, Tapia’s former colleagues at Amazon Prime Video also shared messages of support upon her departure. Chivas play-by-play announcer Enrique Noriega wrote, “Tapia, sabes que te admiramos un montón. La vas a romper, eres una extraordinaria persona y una gran profesional. Aquí dejas varios amigos, incluyéndome. Sigue ese camino, eres top.”
