Controversial F1 pundit let go by Sky Sports sends clear message | F1 | Sport

Patrick had been part of British broadcaster Sky Sports’ F1 coverage since 2021, but was left out of a press release circulated earlier this week that revealed the analysts for the new F1 campaign, which gets underway in Australia this weekend. The analyst had been a divisive figure for many due to her political stances and endorsement of conspiracy theories. Patrick has more than once faced fans calling for her removal, including when her comments left her colleague Jenson Button staring down the camera.

But it appears it was Patrick who made the decision to depart Sky’s coverage. The ex-Indycar driver expressed how much fun she’d had in the role.

Posting on Instagram, Patrick said: “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!

“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!”

“I felt like I had taken in a great experience in F1 and was ready to have more time for other projects and interests,” she added to the Associated Press

“I am building a new company. I am also new to a couple of boards with big plans, and very busy punishing myself by learning new sports like tennis, golf, and skiing.”

Patrick was part of a rotating panel of analysts used by Sky Sports in recent seasons and was usually relied upon for races in North America. She is a high-profile figure in the region thanks to her status as one of the most recognisable female racing drivers and a race winner in IndyCar.

Despite Patrick’s exit, there are no new additions to the broadcaster’s roster ahead of the new season. Naomi Schiff is set to return as an analyst after a period on maternity leave saw her miss the latter stages of the 2025 campaign. Presenter Natalie Pinkham is set to return at the Japanese Grand Prix later this month, after six months away following neck surgery.