Sky Sports F1 Reveals 2026 Punditry Team with Notable Absences and Additions
Sky Sports has officially announced its punditry line-up for the 2026 Formula 1 season, marking significant changes ahead of the new 24-race campaign. The broadcaster confirmed that Danica Patrick, a former IndyCar race winner who joined Sky in 2022 as a regular pundit for races in the United States, will not be part of the team this year.
Danica Patrick's Departure and Political Background
Patrick, 43, last appeared on Sky Sports' coverage during the 2025 US Grand Prix in Austin. A Sky spokesperson stated that she will be focusing on other projects in 2026. Notably, Patrick has been outspoken in her political support for Donald Trump in recent years, which may have influenced the decision. She also featured in season six of Drive to Survive in 2024 but was replaced by 2009 F1 world champion Jenson Button last year.
Expanded Role for Jenson Button and Returning Experts
Jenson Button, who retired from all forms of motorsport last year, will attend more races for Sky Sports in 2026, taking on a larger role as an analyst. Regular co-commentator Martin Brundle is set to work around 16 of the 24 races, maintaining his presence in the broadcast team.
Other former drivers returning to Sky's coverage include:
- 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve
- 2016 champion Nico Rosberg
- Ex-drivers Karun Chandhok and Anthony Davidson
- W Series champion Jamie Chadwick
Presenters and Commentators for the New Season
Simon Lazenby will continue as the lead presenter, with Natalie Pinkham stepping in for her first race in Japan at the end of the month. Rachel Brookes remains the lead media pen reporter, while Ted Kravitz will be in the pit-lane and David Croft serves as the lead commentator. The team is rounded out by Harry Benjamin as a commentator and Craig Slater as a reporter.
Full Sky Sports F1 Line-Up for 2026
Experts & Analysts: Martin Brundle, Jenson Button, Nico Rosberg, Jacques Villeneuve, Naomi Schiff, Bernie Collins, Karun Chandhok, Jamie Chadwick, and Anthony Davidson.
Presenters & Reporters: Simon Lazenby, Natalie Pinkham, Ted Kravitz, Rachel Brookes, and Craig Slater.
Commentators: David Croft and Harry Benjamin.
The 2026 F1 season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne this weekend, with the race starting at 4am GMT. Sky Sports' coverage promises in-depth analysis and expert insights throughout the campaign.
