Does Pedro Sánchez have an American accent?
A short breakdown of Pedro Sánchez’s English, from his World Government Summit 2026 speech.
Over 8,000 lessons taught · Updated Nov 1, 2026
The short answer
No. In Josh’s breakdown of his World Government Summit 2026 speech, Sánchez gives stressed and unstressed syllables almost the same size, keeps consonants very clear and uses little body resonance. Josh is clear that he is not criticizing his English; these patterns just make it harder for American listeners to follow.
What Josh points out
Weak rhythmic contrast
In “outstanding” and “performance,” the unstressed parts get as much attention as the stressed ones.
The “ah” vowel
“Jobs,” “constantly” and “opportunities” use a vowel that does not exist in English, where Americans use “ah” like in father.
Function words in no man’s land
“I could stand here” puts “could” halfway between a small word and a big one. You have to commit to one or the other.
Use the schwa
“To the future” and “go together” sound clearer with a schwa on the small words.
What American ears listen for
Learners listen for the letters. Native speakers listen for the parts in between the letters: the size and shape of the sounds.
FAQ
Does Pedro Sánchez have an American accent?
No. His syllables sound almost the same size, which may suit Spanish, but makes his English harder for American listeners to follow.
Is Josh saying he must change?
No. Josh says he is not criticizing his English or saying he needs to change. He is pointing out what American ears listen for.
What is rhythmic contrast?
The difference in size between stressed and unstressed syllables. In “defended,” the middle syllable is big and the others are small.
What can learners take from this?
Learners listen for the letters. Native speakers listen for the parts in between the letters: the size and shape of the sounds. Make the stressed syllable obvious and keep the rest small.
About Josh
Josh Lewis is an American accent coach with over 8,000 lessons taught. He helps fluent professionals get understood the first time in meetings, standups and client calls.
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