Damon Hill leaves Sky Sports F1 after 13 years of expert commentary
Damon Hill, 1996 F1 world champion, is leaving Sky Sports F1. The former British driver, a key figure on the channel since 2012, has announced his departure after 13 years with the channel.
The 1996 Formula 1 world champion, Damon Hill, announced yesterday his departure from Sky Sports F1 after 13 years of collaboration as an expert consultant. This decision marks the end of an era for the British channel, which had made the former driver one of its iconic figures since acquiring the broadcasting rights for F1 in 2012.
Speaking on the social network X (formerly Twitter), Hill said: “It’s been 13 fantastic years with Sky Sports F1, but all good things come to an end. The most impressive professionals I’ve had the pleasure of working with will be missed. Looking forward to taking on new challenges.”
« He has been an integral part of our coverage, bringing unique expertise.
In a statement, the director of F1 at Sky Sports, Billy McGinty, praised the exceptional contribution of the former driver. « We thank Damon Hill for 13 incredible years with the Sky Sports F1 team, where he has been an integral part of our coverage, bringing unique expertise, analyses, and unmatched passion to our broadcasts. His perspective, shaped by his own legendary racing career, has entertained and inspired fans worldwide.
Damon Hill’s departure comes as he had recently found himself at the center of controversy with the reigning triple world champion Max Verstappen during the Mexican Grand Prix. Indeed, the former British champion had severely criticized the Red Bull driver’s behavior in his duel with Lando Norris, describing his maneuver as ridiculous and sneaky. The Dutchman had replied sharply. “I don’t listen to these people. I just do my thing. I am a triple world champion, I think I know what I’m doing.”
22 Grand Prix wins
Son of double Formula 1 world champion Graham Hill, Damon made history in 1996 by becoming world champion driving for Williams, making them the first father-son duo to win in the sport. His career, spanning from 1992 to 1999, includes 22 Grand Prix wins and notable stints at Brabham, Williams, Arrows, and Jordan.
His departure quickly drew a reaction from the world of F1. Bernie Collins, former strategy engineer at Aston Martin and now a member of the Sky team, expressed her sadness. « I will miss you immensely! I loved working with you these past two seasons. Thank you for all your support.
Notable departure
Will Buxton, commentator for F1TV, also paid tribute to Hill. Your analysis has always been unique, deep and inspiring. It’s a great loss for the excellent Sky team, but we are grateful that the world has been able to benefit from the many lessons of your career and your life.
It remains to be determined whether the Briton will take part in the last races of the 2024 season, which will conclude with a triple-header in Las Vegas, Qatar, and Abu Dhabi. His last participation as a consultant may have already taken place in Brazil.
Damon Hill leaves behind an important legacy in sports journalism, having been part of a leading team of consultants alongside other champions like Jenson Button and Nico Rosberg, as well as recognized figures like Martin Brundle, Anthony Davidson, and Karun Chandhok. His departure follows that of Johnny Herbert, who left Sky Sports at the end of 2023 to join the FIA as a race steward.
