F1 Icon David Coulthard Announces New Podcast Venture with Familiar Faces
Formula 1 legend David Coulthard has secured a fresh broadcasting role, teaming up with two well-known personalities from the motorsport world for an exciting new podcast project. The 13-time Grand Prix winner, who has become a staple of F1 coverage since his retirement, is set to host the upcoming show alongside Drive to Survive star Will Buxton.
From the Paddock to the Podcast Booth
Coulthard, whose illustrious racing career spanned from 1994 to 2008 with teams including Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull, transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting after hanging up his helmet. The 54-year-old Scot initially joined the BBC's coverage before moving to Channel 4, while also maintaining a regular presence on F1TV during race weekends. His latest move represents a significant shift in his post-racing career, as he embraces the podcast format to engage with Formula 1's rapidly expanding global audience.
The Up To Speed Podcast Lineup and Format
The new podcast, titled Up To Speed, will feature Coulthard and Buxton alongside host Jolie Sharpe and former driver-turned-pundit Naomi Schiff. Scheduled to debut on February 16, the show will be produced by the same team behind the popular football-focused podcast The Overlap. Episodes will be released twice weekly, with a Monday edition reacting to weekend race action and a Thursday instalment delving into the sport's most pressing topics and controversies.
Coulthard expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating: "Formula 1's audience continues to grow every year, and with so much momentum in the sport, this feels like the perfect time to launch a podcast show like this. It's a huge season for Formula 1, and we want to bring fans right into the heart of it. Expect big interviews, sharp analysis, and above all, a genuine passion and love for racing. We can't wait to get started and for you to join us!"
Will Buxton's Return to F1 Broadcasting
Will Buxton, who rose to prominence through his appearances on Netflix's groundbreaking documentary series Drive to Survive, departed his role as a presenter and reporter on F1TV in early 2025 to take up a position with FOX Sports' IndyCar Series coverage. However, this new podcast marks his return to the Formula 1 broadcasting sphere. Buxton highlighted the show's potential to explore aspects of the sport beyond mere on-track action.
Buxton explained: "Formula 1 isn't just about what happens on the track, it's about the drama, the personalities, the moments you don't see, and the questions fans are desperate to ask. Launching this podcast show with Naomi, David, and Jolie felt like the perfect way to open the doors a little wider. Between us we've lived and breathed this sport for years. Up To Speed gives us the chance to react fast, go behind the scenes and have the kind of honest, opinionated conversations that we hope the fans will love!"
Naomi Schiff's Perspective and Contribution
Sky Sports F1 presenter Naomi Schiff, who has been involved in motorsport since her teenage years, brings valuable insight to the podcast. She emphasized the team's commitment to delivering authentic content that resonates with dedicated fans.
Schiff noted: "Being at races week in, week out gives us a real sense of what's happening beyond the headlines. This podcast is about sharing those conversations, moments, and perspectives with fans, and exploring what matters on and off the track. It's honest, engaging and focused on the stories, questions and topics fans care about."
The launch of Up To Speed represents a significant addition to Formula 1's media landscape, combining the expertise of a racing legend with the contemporary appeal of podcasting. With its twice-weekly schedule and focus on timely reaction and in-depth discussion, the show aims to capture the dynamic nature of the sport while providing fans with unprecedented access to insider perspectives.
