Danica Patrick Dropped by Sky Sports as F1 Analyst Amid Political Controversy

Sky Sports has confirmed that Danica Patrick will not be part of their Formula 1 punditry team for the upcoming season, following the announcement of their 2026 line-up.

The former IndyCar star, who joined Sky's coverage of races in the U.S. in 2022, last contributed to their broadcasts during the 2025 US Grand Prix in Austin.

As the new season approaches, set to kick off in Australia this weekend, the network stated that Patrick, known for her vocal support of Donald Trump, will “not be part of the Sky Sports F1 team going forward.”

A representative from Sky indicated that the 43-year-old will shift her focus to other motorsport endeavors.

Patrick made headlines in 2024 when she disclosed her vote for Trump in the presidential election, marking her first experience at the polls. “It feels like voting for Donald Trump is like the vote of reason,” she expressed in an interview. “It’s like the rational, reasonable choice.”

She further elaborated on the gender dynamics in voting, suggesting that Trump's personality may deter some women from supporting him. “That’s the most common answer you hear from people. ‘I just can’t vote for him.’ I don’t think that’s a good enough reason,” she stated. “You don’t have to go to dinner with him. You just have to like the country that you live in.”

Patrick also shared her vision for America under Trump's leadership, stating, “I feel like most of all, though, what this country could be if he gets into office, with all the amazing, brilliant people who are supporting him, I feel like it can not only make America great again but make America greater than it’s ever been.”

In addition to her punditry role, Patrick appeared in season six of Drive to Survive in 2024 but was replaced by Jenson Button last year.

Button, the 2009 F1 world champion, is set to attend more races this season after retiring from all forms of motorsport last year. Martin Brundle will continue as a co-commentator for approximately 16 of the 24 races.

Sky's coverage will also feature other former drivers including Jacques Villeneuve, Nico Rosberg, Karun Chandhok, Anthony Davidson, and W Series champion Jamie Chadwick.

Simon Lazenby remains the lead presenter, with Natalie Pinkham making her debut at the Japanese Grand Prix later this month. Rachel Brookes will serve as the lead media pen reporter, while Ted Kravitz will cover pit-lane activities and David Croft will be the lead commentator.

The Australian Grand Prix marks the start of the new campaign this weekend, with the race scheduled to begin at 4am (GMT).