Danica Patrick has publicly addressed her departure from the Sky Sports F1 broadcast team ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season, confirming that she is leaving as it was
“time for me to move on.”
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the veteran driver reflected on her years with the broadcaster, drawing attention from F1 commentator David Croft, also known as Crofty.
Patrick’s recent announcement puts to rest speculation following the release of Sky Sports F1’s broadcast team list for the 2026 season, which did not include her name. Known as a pioneering female driver in motorsport, Patrick joined the Sky Sports F1 team for the 2021 United States Grand Prix and has since contributed to coverage at American races including those in Austin, Las Vegas, and Miami.
Patrick’s Path from Racing to Broadcasting
After finishing her professional racing career in 2018—with the Daytona 500 and Indy 500 being her final competitions in NASCAR and IndyCar, respectively—Danica Patrick began her transition to media as a member of NBC’s Indy 500 broadcast lineup. Just a few years later, she took on a new role with Sky Sports F1, marking the start of her regular appearances in Formula 1 coverage for American-hosted races.
Her legacy in motorsport is marked by being the first woman to win an IndyCar event and by leading at the iconic Daytona 500. Her recognizable presence in the US motorsport scene contributed to her successful crossover into sports broadcasting, where she brought her expertise and personality to audiences on Sky and, more recently, on FOX’s Indy 500 coverage.
Danica Patrick Reflects on Sky Sports F1 Experience
Sharing images from her first Sky Sports F1 appearance at the 2021 US Grand Prix, Patrick expressed gratitude for the opportunity and the experiences gained during her time with the broadcast team. She noted the enjoyment she found working with the Sky group and witnessing Formula 1’s rapid rise in popularity across the United States:
“From my first @skysportsf1 race in Austin to my last 5 years later… I had such a blast! The sky team was so much fun (thank you all), I saw so many amazing new race tracks and cities, and got to be part of a huge boom in F1!”
– Danica Patrick, former Sky Sports F1 presenter
She further confirmed the nature of her exit and offered thanks to the network:
“I called after the last race in 2025 and said it was time for me to move on and I was so grateful for the opportunity and experience I was given! ….and now due to my deep exposure to F1, I will be glued to my tv for the season starting this weekend, like every other fan,”
she added – Danica Patrick, former Sky Sports F1 presenter
In response, David Croft, Sky Sports’ lead F1 commentator since 2012, acknowledged Patrick’s announcement by liking her Instagram post. This public recognition indicates the mutual respect between Patrick and her colleagues at Sky Sports F1.
Longtime Career Across Motorsports and Beyond
Patrick’s journey began with the Formula Ford championship, where she caught the attention of Bobby Rahal—then team principal at Jaguar F1—who later provided her with a career-shaping opportunity at Rahal Letterman Racing. After a stint there, Patrick joined Michael Andretti’s team, competing for five seasons and clinching her sole IndyCar victory at the 2008 Indy Japan 300.
After the switch to NASCAR in 2012 with Stewart-Haas Racing, she achieved pole position at the 2013 Daytona 500 and raced until retiring in 2018. Post-retirement, Patrick expanded her role in media, joining NBC’s Indy 500 team, Sky Sports F1, and recently FOX for the 109th Indy 500 broadcast.
Away from motorsport, Patrick has also been active in political circles, notably supporting Donald Trump during the 2024 US presidential elections and participating as a speaker at Turning Point USA. In addition, she hosts the ‘Pretty Intense’ podcast and owns the Somnium vineyard in Napa Valley, reflecting her growing interests beyond racing.
Impact of Patrick’s Exit and What Lies Ahead
Danica Patrick’s exit from the Sky Sports F1 team closes a chapter on her unique contribution to motorsport broadcasting, especially for American F1 fans. Her departure marks the end of an era where she brought firsthand racing insight to Formula 1’s expanding US audience.
Although no longer appearing on Sky Sports F1, Patrick remains engaged with the motorsport world and her fan base, promising to follow the 2026 Formula 1 season closely as a spectator. Her varied career, from championship racing to high-profile broadcasting and political advocacy, ensures she will continue to influence the racing and sports community in multiple ways.
