Danica Patrick Breaks Silence on Sky Sports Exit Ahead of 2026 F1 Season
Outspoken former NASCAR and IndyCar driver Danica Patrick has publicly addressed her departure from Sky Sports' Formula 1 broadcasting team just days before the 2026 season begins. Patrick took to Instagram to clarify the circumstances surrounding her exit, suggesting she made the decision to leave rather than being dropped by the broadcaster.
Conflicting Narratives Emerge
Earlier this week, Sky Sports announced that Patrick would not be part of their F1 coverage for the upcoming season, which kicks off this weekend with the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne. The broadcaster revealed its lineup of commentators, hosts, and analysts for 2026, with Patrick's name conspicuously absent from the roster.
However, on Thursday, Patrick posted a lengthy message on Instagram thanking Sky Sports for the opportunity while asserting she had initiated her departure. "I called after the last race in 2025 and said it was time for me to move on," Patrick wrote. "I was so grateful for the opportunity and experience I was given!"
The 44-year-old motorsports trailblazer included photographs from her time with Sky Sports, showing herself on set and standing on the track at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas, where she covered the United States Grand Prix.
Five-Year Broadcasting Tenure
Patrick had been part of Sky Sports' F1 coverage for five seasons, making her first appearance during the 2021 United States Grand Prix. While not a full-time analyst, she had been a regular presence at North American races, including the Canadian and Mexican Grands Prix as well as the three United States-based events.
Sky Sports serves as the official F1 broadcaster in the United Kingdom, with its feed also appearing in the United States and Canada as part of ESPN and TSN's race coverage. Patrick's departure comes during a period of significant growth for Formula 1's popularity in North America.
A Divisive Figure in Motorsports
Patrick has become a polarizing figure in recent years due to her political views and outspoken support for former U.S. President Donald Trump. She has also made controversial comments about conspiracy theories involving "lizard people" and recently shared a story at a Turning Point USA event about a "past life regression" experience where she claimed to have lived as a Native American.
During last month's 2026 Winter Olympics, Patrick further stirred controversy by trolling Canada over its loss to the United States in the men's gold medal hockey game. She posted on Instagram: "If Canada had been smart and become the 51st State, they'd be gold medalists right now," adding the cheeky caption: "Too soon?"
Uncertain Future in Broadcasting
While Patrick expressed gratitude for her time with Sky Sports and enthusiasm for watching the upcoming F1 season as a fan, questions remain about her future in motorsports broadcasting. The full truth about whether she was cut by the broadcaster or genuinely chose to leave may never be publicly confirmed, but what is certain is that viewers will not see her as part of Sky Sports' coverage for the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Patrick concluded her Instagram post by writing: "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!" Her departure marks the end of a five-year chapter in her broadcasting career that began during a period of expanding F1 interest in North America.
