Former Formula 1 champion Damon Hill’s abrupt exit from Sky Sports F1 has sparked speculation, with Johnny Herbert suggesting Hill may have been driven away by backlash over his critical comments about Max Verstappen.
A Shock Departure and the Verstappen Factor
Hill, a revered figure in the F1 paddock and a key voice on Sky Sports’ coverage since 2012, recently announced his departure after 12 years. The decision, unexpected and unexplained, has fueled debate over the reasons behind it. Herbert, a former colleague and fellow F1 veteran, floated the idea that relentless criticism from Verstappen’s fanbase might have played a part.
“I don’t know whether it was [Hill’s] decision or Sky’s, to be honest,” Herbert told reporters. “I know he got criticism for the Max scenarios and maybe he felt, ‘You know what, I don’t need that.’ He was very unhappy at the crazy level of abuse he got over his Max comments.”
Hill’s criticism of Verstappen’s conduct during the Mexican Grand Prix reportedly triggered a wave of backlash, with fans accusing the Briton of bias. The negativity could have soured Hill’s experience with Sky Sports, leading to his departure, Herbert speculated.
Who Fills the Void?
Sky Sports F1 now faces the challenge of replacing Hill’s expertise and presence. Herbert floated Daniel Ricciardo as a potential successor, citing the Australian’s charisma and deep reservoir of racing experience.
“Daniel would be a good addition,” Herbert said. “He has the experience, the smiley face, is telegenic and very popular. All those experiences—good and bad—are what people want to hear about.”
Ricciardo, currently on a break from a full-time F1 seat, could bring fresh energy and a global appeal to Sky’s coverage. However, his availability remains uncertain as he prepares for a potential return to the grid in 2025.
The Bigger Picture: F1 Media Scrutiny
Hill’s exit coincides with a growing scrutiny of F1 broadcasters, particularly in the British media. Fans have increasingly voiced concerns over alleged biases, eroding trust in some of the sport’s most prominent voices. As Sky Sports navigates this turbulence, they’ll need to rebuild trust while finding a worthy successor to Hill’s seat.
What’s Next for Hill—and Verstappen?
While Damon Hill may be stepping back from his broadcasting duties, Max Verstappen continues to dominate the sport. With a 62-point lead in the drivers’ championship, the Dutchman is on the cusp of clinching his fourth consecutive title.
As Hill himself moves on, his departure serves as a reminder of the intense scrutiny and passion that F1 stirs, not just on the track but in the narratives surrounding its stars and commentators. Whether Hill’s exit was indeed fueled by Verstappen-related controversy or other factors, it marks the end of an era for Sky Sports F1.