Former Formula 1 champion Damon Hill has left Sky Sports F1 abruptly, sparking speculation, with Johnny Herbert suggesting Hill may have been pushed to leave due to backlash following his critical comments on Max Verstappen.
A shocking start and the Verstappen factor
Hill, a respected figure in the F1 paddock and a key voice in Sky Sports coverage since 2012, recently announced his departure after 12 years. The decision, unexpected and unexplained, fueled the debate on the reasons which motivated it. Herbert, a former colleague and F1 veteran, floated the idea that incessant criticism from Verstappen's fans may have played a role.
“I don't know if it was [la décision de Hill] or Sky's, to be honest,” Herbert told reporters. “I know he got some criticism for the Max storylines and maybe he was like, 'You know what, I don't need that.' He was very unhappy because of the crazy level of abuse he received following his comments about Max.”
Hill's criticism of Verstappen's behavior during the Mexican Grand Prix reportedly sparked a wave of backlash, with fans accusing the Briton of bias. The negativity could have tarnished Hill's experience with Sky Sports, Herbert speculated.
Who Fills the Void?
Sky Sports F1 now faces the challenge of replacing Hill's expertise and presence. Herbert mentioned Daniel Ricciardo as a potential successor, citing the Australian's charisma and vast reservoir of racing experience.
“Daniel would be a good addition,” Herbert said. “He has the experience, a smiling face, is televisual and very popular. All of these experiences—good and bad—are what people want to hear.”
Ricciardo, currently on hiatus from a full-time F1 seat, could bring fresh energy and global appeal to Sky's coverage. However, his availability remains uncertain as he prepares for a potential return to the grid in 2025.
The Big Picture: The F1 Media Poll
Hill's departure coincides with increasing scrutiny of F1 broadcasters, particularly in the British media. Fans have increasingly voiced concerns about alleged bias, eroding trust in some of the sport's most prominent voices. As Sky Sports navigates this turbulence, they will need to rebuild trust while finding a worthy successor to Hill's seat.
What lies ahead for Hill—and Verstappen?
While Damon Hill may step down from commentary duties, Max Verstappen continues to dominate the sport. With a 62-point lead in the drivers' championship, the Dutchman is on the verge of securing his fourth consecutive title.
As Hill himself moves on, his departure is a reminder of the intense polling and passion that F1 generates, not only on the track but also in the narratives surrounding its stars and commentators. Whether Hill's departure was actually fueled by Verstappen-related controversies or other factors, it marks the end of an era for Sky Sports F1.
