Danica Patrick reveals the truth on shock Sky Sports F1 exit ahead of 2026 season
Former IndyCar and NASCAR driver Danica Patrick has broken her silence after being omitted from the Sky Sports F1 line-up for 2026.
On Wednesday, the United Kingdom's main F1 broadcaster, Sky Sports, confirmed their on-screen line-up for the 2026 season.
Popular members such as lead commentator David Croft, pit-lane reporter Ted Kravitz and expert analyst Martin Brundle will resume their roles.
They are joined by the likes of Jenson Button, Nico Rosberg, Jacques Villeneuve, Naomi Schiff, Bernie Collins, Karun Chandhok, Jamie Chadwick and Anthony Davidson.
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In addition, Simon Lazenby, Natalie Pinkham, Rachel Brookes and Craig Slater will also share presenting and reporting duties.
It has also been confirmed that BBC Radio 5 Live commentator Harry Benjamin will step in for Croft at a handful of races during the 2026 campaign.
Meanwhile, there was no space for Patrick, who has often been a part of the Sky Sports line-up for the North American races.
Now, the 43-year-old has taken to social media to confirm her departure from Sky Sports F1.
She wrote on Instagram: "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!"
Patrick then went on to imply that she decided to step away from Sky Sports, rather than her being dropped by the broadcaster.
She continued: "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!"
In the comments section, Sky Sports' Chandhok wrote: "Fun times DP!"
Meanwhile, Pinkham replied with two love heart emojis.
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Topics: Formula 1, Sky Sports
Marcus Chan