Danica Patrick Faces F1 Broadcast Backlash From Fans

Danica Patrick F1 broadcast backlash erupted as the former IndyCar and NASCAR driver appeared on Sky F1’s coverage of the 2025 US Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Fans voiced their opinions on social media platform X, with some expressing dissatisfaction over her role as a broadcaster during the event.

Patrick, known for her trailblazing career in open wheel racing, began in the UK before making her mark in the US IndyCar series, and later pursued NASCAR. Her last appearances in IndyCar and NASCAR came in the 2016 Indy 500 and Daytona 500, after which she stepped away from competition. Following her retirement, Patrick transitioned into media, joining Sky Sports as an F1 host, and recently served as a part-time member of their broadcast lineup.

Fan Responses on Social Media Highlight Divided Opinions

After Patrick’s on-air segments during the US GP, reactions poured in across X, ranging from criticism to frustration. Various users shared their views as they encountered Patrick’s broadcast presence, often focusing on their desire for changes in the team composition.

“Oh no not Danica Patrick,” wrote a user on X — User, X

Another mentioned,

“Oh crap forgot Danica Patrick is on this weekend.”

— User, X

“Tuned into F1 but I forgot Danica Patrick is still employed by sky,”

wrote another user — User, X

Increased calls for her removal emerged, with some requesting Sky F1 to consider a different lineup.
Another mentioned,

“Oh gawd, I had genuinely forgotten about the existence of Danica Patrick and now she’s on my TV again FFS”

— User, X

“Just turned on Sky Sports F1 and first thing i saw was Danica Patrick 🤢…..my weekend is ruined!!! 😩”

wrote another user on X — User, X

Despite the critical commentary, Patrick has sustained her broadcasting career, often participating in high-profile motorsport events as a presenter.

Political Involvement Adds to Public Spotlight

Beyond motorsport and broadcasting, Danica Patrick’s public visibility has extended into politics. She supported Donald Trump during the last US presidential election and was reportedly present at the oath-taking ceremony in Washington, DC, further amplifying her profile outside the racetrack.

Patrick Reflects on Broadcasting Experience Influencing Indy 500 Role

Patrick’s experience with Sky Sports F1 opened up further broadcast opportunities. When FOX took over IndyCar broadcasting rights, their first race at Indianapolis in 2025 featured a special studio team, including Patrick. She recently discussed the benefits of her Sky F1 role in a conversation on the Haley Dillon YouTube channel, conveying her appreciation for the platform.

“It’s always just such an honor you know. Again that nostalgia is there and um you know I feel like I can sort of you know because I do a lot of F1 stuff too and um you know I feel like I can speak a little bit more confidently about the cars or the dynamics or whatever’s going on.”

(1:05:31 onwards) — Danica Patrick, Host and Former Racing Driver

Even though whenever I ask engineers or people like that about you know F1 or other things it’s like it’s all pretty much the same um but uh but it’s cool it’s just it’s a really spectacular race and um it’s uh yeah I have a lot of it it’s a good feel good feel race for me,” she added. — Danica Patrick, Host and Former Racing Driver

Alongside Patrick, NASCAR legend Tony Stewart participated in the FOX broadcast lineup for this year’s Indy 500 coverage, further reflecting the event’s significance and broad appeal.

What the Reaction Means for Patrick and F1 Broadcasting

The debate surrounding Danica Patrick’s participation in F1 broadcasting highlights the passionate engagement of motorsport fans and the challenging dynamics broadcasters face in assembling their on-air teams. As Patrick continues to appear across major networks and racing events, her ability to adapt and address feedback remains key to her media presence. The ongoing Danica Patrick F1 broadcast backlash may prompt platforms like Sky Sports and FOX to reassess talent choices based on audience preferences, while continuing to draw from expertise within the motorsports community. Looking ahead, the conversation about broadcasters’ roles is likely to persist, especially as high-profile figures stay in the spotlight on and off the track.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Latest In NASCAR