News

Donald Trump-supporting F1 pundit breaks silence after being let go by Sky Sports

Former IndyCar driver Danica Patrick has spoken about her exit from Sky Sports’ F1 coverage after five years ahead of the new season

View 2 Images

Danica Patrick has spoken about her Sky Sports exit(Image: Michael M. Santiago, Getty Images)

Former NASCAR driver and Formula 1 pundit Danica Patrick has spoken out after it was revealed she would not be part of Sky Sports ‘ coverage for the new season. The 43-year-old has disclosed that she decided to step away and is seeking to redirect her focus to other ventures.

Patrick had been a fixture of British broadcaster Sky Sports’ F1 coverage since 2021 but was absent from a press release issued earlier this week announcing the analysts for the new F1 season, which kicks off in Australia this weekend.

The analyst had proved a contentious figure for many due to her political views and promotion of conspiracy theories. She is an ardent and outspoken supporter of US President Donald Trump.

Patrick has repeatedly faced calls from fans demanding her removal, including when her remarks left her colleague Jenson Button staring down the camera.

However, it seems it was Patrick who chose to leave Sky’s coverage. The former IndyCar driver shared how much she’d enjoyed the role.

Writing on Instagram, Patrick said: “From my first @skysportsf1 race in Austin to my last 5 years later… I had such a blast! The sky team was so much fun (thank you all), I saw so many amazing new race tracks and cities, and got to be part of a huge boom in F1!

“I called after the last race in 2025 and said it was time for me to move on and I was so grateful for the opportunity and experience I was given!”.

“….and now due to my deep exposure to F1, I will be glued to my tv for the season starting this weekend, like every other fan!

View 2 Images

Danica Patrick is not covering Formula 1 this season(Image: Getty)

“I felt like I had taken in a great experience in F1 and was ready to have more time for other projects and interests,” she told the Associated Press.

“I am building a new company. I am also new to a couple of boards with big plans, and very busy punishing myself by learning new sports like tennis, golf, and skiing.”

Patrick featured as part of a rotating group of analysts deployed by Sky Sports in recent seasons and typically covered races in North America. She’s a prominent figure across the region owing to her standing as one of the most recognisable female racing drivers and an IndyCar race winner.

Despite Patrick’s departure, the broadcaster hasn’t brought in any fresh faces for the new season. Naomi Schiff is expected to resume her analyst duties following maternity leave which saw her absent for the closing stages of the 2025 campaign.

Presenter Natalie Pinkham is scheduled to return at the Japanese Grand Prix later this month, following a six-month absence after undergoing neck surgery.

You Might Also Enjoy