Martin Brundle has today announced that he will be moving from the BBC to Sky for next season, confirming recent speculation in the press.
The current BBC lead commentator said that Sky’s decision to have a dedicated F1 channel and no in-race advertising were factors in his decision to switch broadcasters, as was the opportunity to commentate live at every race.
The fact that their newly-announced and dedicated F1 channel will have no in-race advertising was a key factor, but most importantly I need to commentate on every race live,” said Brundle, writing in The Sunday Times this morning. “Recorded and delayed sports television doesn't give me the adrenalin fix I crave.
“There will also be more airtime for the technical features I so enjoy crafting. It's been a privilege to be part of the BBC team, but now I have a new motivation and challenge.”
Speaking on Twitter this morning, Brundle confirmed that he will be paid more by Sky, but said that money was not the motivation behind his decision. His last race commentating for the BBC will be the Brazilian Grand Prix this afternoon.
It has not yet been announced who else will be joining Brundle in the Sky commentary box, although various sources believe that David Croft, currently of 5Live, will be in the lead commentator role.