Danica Patrick dropped by Sky Sports is making headlines after the network removed the former NASCAR and IndyCar star from its Formula 1 commentary and analysis team ahead of the new season, which opens with the Australian Grand Prix this weekend. Patrick’s omission comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding her polarizing political statements and public persona.
Danica Patrick’s Broadcast Exit Coincides with Divisive Public Profile
Sky Sports disclosed its updated team of Formula 1 commentators on Wednesday, with Danica Patrick’s name absent for the upcoming campaign. Over the last five seasons, Patrick regularly contributed analysis, primarily during North American races. However, her outspoken views, including support for Donald Trump and engagement with conspiracy theories, intensified debate among motorsports fans and commentators alike. After drawing backlash for comments she made that prompted visible discomfort among her colleagues on air, some viewers had even called for her dismissal last season.
Most recently, Patrick drew attention by weighing in on a heated incident involving Donald Trump. She also voiced opposition to the decision to make Puerto Rican musician Bad Bunny this year’s Super Bowl halftime act and provocatively commented that Canadian ice hockey players would have
“
been smart and become the 51st state
”
of the USA if they wanted Winter Olympic gold medals. As scrutiny over Patrick’s political activity and opinions mounted, her fit for Sky’s mainstream audience grew increasingly contentious.
Sky Sports Shifts F1 Coverage Team
This season, Sky Sports did not add any new faces to their commentator line-up, instead favoring established broadcasters. Alongside Patrick’s exit, Naomi Schiff is expected to resume her analyst role after taking time off for maternity leave at the end of 2025. Natalie Pinkham, a lead presenter for the network, will also return for the Japanese Grand Prix following a half-year break for recovery after neck surgery. Pinkham shared her ongoing progress with Mirror Sport, stating,
I’m getting there! It’s been a tougher, longer road to recovery than I had expected. But I’m doing physiotherapy every day at the moment – it’s quite full on – but I’m getting stronger.
Natalie Pinkham, Presenter. She also conveyed her enthusiasm for returning, noting,
I’m really happy to say that I have been given the all clear to do long hauls again. My first [race] that I will be presenting for Sky F1 this year is Japan. And I am really happy about that because I bloody love Suzuka, so very excited to see you then.
Natalie Pinkham, Presenter.
According to inside reports from Mirror Sport, no specific reasons were offered for Patrick’s removal, though she is reportedly pivoting toward other business opportunities. Sky’s updated coverage roster signals a desire for stability and possibly fewer distractions as the network heads into a high-profile racing season.
Expanded Coverage and Enhanced Presentation for the 2026 Season
For the new campaign, Sky Sports is rolling out additional upgrades to its F1 broadcasts. The network debuted a new theme song, performed by Grammy-nominated singer Tate McRae and featured in the recent release F1: The Movie. This track, “Just Keep Watching,” is set to serve as the backdrop for coverage throughout 2026, aiming to infuse the broadcasts with renewed energy for fans worldwide.
Sky Sports is also extending its reach in the United States via Formula 1’s expanded television partnership with Apple. This agreement grants American audiences easier access to Sky’s F1 broadcasts alongside other viewing options during live race weekends, broadening the network’s influence among a growing international fan base.
What Danica Patrick’s Departure Means for Formula 1 Coverage
As the Formula 1 circuit gears up for an action-packed season opening in Australia, Sky Sports’ decision to part ways with Danica Patrick reflects both an internal recalibration and shifting viewer expectations. While Patrick herself has not publicly reacted to the decision, her absence is expected to reduce the level of political controversy surrounding the network’s broadcasts. With veterans like Naomi Schiff and Natalie Pinkham returning and broadcast innovations on tap, Sky is positioning its coverage around experienced voices, aiming for a steady and focused presentation as Formula 1 continues its global expansion.
