Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Legendary Sports Journalist John Roberts Passes Away at 84

1/20/2026

50 12

Summary

Story summary

John Roberts, a prominent sports journalist, died at age 84.
Roberts began his career at the Stockport Express, then joined the Daily Express, earning a reputation for rigorous reporting.
He influenced the Guardian's sports coverage after moving there.
Roberts was George Best's ghostwriter during the footballer's rise.
Later, he covered tennis for the Independent and wrote a Manchester United post-Munich air crash book.

1 of 1

Story summary

John Roberts, a prominent sports journalist, died at age 84.
Roberts began his career at the Stockport Express, then joined the Daily Express, earning a reputation for rigorous reporting.
He influenced the Guardian's sports coverage after moving there.
Roberts was George Best's ghostwriter during the footballer's rise.
Later, he covered tennis for the Independent and wrote a Manchester United post-Munich air crash book.