TV News: Danica Patrick dropped from 2026 Sky Sports F1 lineup

As the 2026 Formula 1 season kicks off this weekend with the Australian Grand Prix at Melbourne’s Albert Park, Sky Sports—the UK’s official F1 broadcaster—has unveiled its punditry and broadcasting team, featuring familiar faces but with one notable absence.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

Apple TV will use the Sky Sports feed in the USA for American TV viewers.

Leading the commentary will be David Croft, supported by pit-lane reporter Ted Kravitz and expert analyst Martin Brundle, all retained from previous seasons. Brundle will continue his iconic pre-race grid walks, while Kravitz returns with his popular “Ted’s Notebook” segments following qualifying and races.

The expert panel remains strong, including former world champions Jenson Button, Nico Rosberg, and Jacques Villeneuve, alongside Naomi Schiff, Bernie Collins, Karun Chandhok, Jamie Chadwick, and Anthony Davidson.

Presenting and reporting duties will be shared by Simon Lazenby, Natalie Pinkham, Rachel Brookes, and Craig Slater. The 48-year-old Pinkham, who recently underwent neck surgery, has confirmed her return to the paddock starting with the Japanese Grand Prix.

BBC Radio 5 Live’s Harry Benjamin will again deputize for Croft at select races, as he has in recent years.

However, former IndyCar and NASCAR driver Danica Patrick is missing from the lineup. Over the past few seasons, she primarily contributed during North American rounds but won’t be part of the team this year.