Danica Patrick absence from Sky F1 lineup confirmed for M…read more
Sky Sports F1 has confirmed that Danica Patrick will not be part of its broadcast team for the 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, as she is set to fulfill prior commitments in the United States. The former IndyCar and NASCAR star had become a familiar face on Sky’s coverage throughout the 2024 Formula 1 season, particularly at the American rounds. Patrick made appearances at all U.S.-based races, in addition to the Mexican and Qatari Grands Prix, as part of a scheduled seven-event deal with the broadcaster. However, despite being signed on for the 2025 campaign, her absence from the Monaco lineup has now been officially announced.
The 42-year-old will instead provide live analysis and commentary for the Indy 500 on Fox Sports this weekend, a significant event in American motorsport. The Indy 500 is one of the Triple Crown races in global motorsport, alongside the Monaco Grand Prix and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, making this weekend a major one for racing fans worldwide. Her presence at the Indy 500 reflects her deep-rooted connections with American motorsport, particularly given her history as the most successful woman in the history of IndyCar racing.
Patrick’s time on Sky Sports F1 has not been without controversy. Despite her professional credentials and insights, she has faced criticism from segments of the Formula 1 fanbase, largely stemming from her political views shared publicly on social media. Patrick drew backlash for voicing support for former U.S. President Donald Trump and later, for comments related to a meeting between President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. These instances led to a wave of criticism questioning her role as a neutral voice in the international sport of Formula 1. Nonetheless, Sky Sports stood by her at the time, reaffirming her inclusion as part of its 2025 expert lineup. Her absence from Monaco, however, appears unrelated to these controversies and instead aligns with prior broadcasting commitments.
For the Monaco Grand Prix, Sky Sports has unveiled a star-studded presenting and commentary team. The lineup will include lead commentators Martin Brundle and David Croft, who have become iconic voices in F1 broadcasting. They will be joined by Simon Lazenby, who will anchor the coverage, alongside former racing stars Jenson Button and Naomi Schiff, as well as long-standing pit-lane reporter Ted Kravitz. Natalie Pinkham and Karun Chandhok will also feature, offering interviews and in-depth analysis throughout the weekend.
As the F1 circus arrives in Monaco, the spotlight also falls on defending world champion Max Verstappen, who is aiming to secure back-to-back wins. Verstappen arrives in the principality fresh off a commanding performance at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola, where he overtook current championship leader Oscar Piastri in the early stages of the race to secure victory. The win marked Verstappen’s first since the Japanese Grand Prix in April and has reignited his pursuit of the championship title. The Red Bull driver has now closed the points gap to 22 behind Piastri, with McLaren’s Lando Norris wedged between the two in second place in the standings.
This weekend’s Monaco Grand Prix coincides with the legendary Indianapolis 500, providing motorsport fans with a double feature of high-stakes competition. Both races are cornerstones of the sport’s storied Triple Crown, elevating the significance of the day for fans and drivers alike. With Patrick opting to cover the Indy 500 and Verstappen targeting another critical win in Monte Carlo, all eyes will be on a thrilling weekend of global motorsport action.
