Rachel Brookes denies Verstappen link to Sky F1 exit

Rachel Brookes has publicly denied rumors that Max Verstappen played any role in her departure from Sky Sports F1, clarifying that her exit after more than a decade was unrelated to the online backlash she faced following the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix. The veteran broadcaster opened up about her emotional final days in the paddock and the overwhelming support she received from drivers including Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc.

Why it matters:

The rumors had gained significant traction among fans since Brookes left Sky last month, with many assuming the abuse she received after questioning Verstappen about his clash with George Russell had led to her ouster. By addressing the speculation directly, Brookes puts to rest a narrative that had overshadowed her departure and reinforces that the paddock remains a tight-knit community despite the intense scrutiny of modern F1 media.

The details:

• Brookes explained on the Essential F1 podcast that the online abuse from the 2025 Spanish Grand Prix was "resolved very quickly" and that she maintains a "great relationship" with Verstappen.
• Lewis Hamilton: Brookes shared a private, emotional farewell with Hamilton, who told her, "I hope I see you back in the paddock soon," before photographers captured the pair sharing a hug.
• Charles Leclerc: During the Canadian Grand Prix weekend, Leclerc approached Brookes in the TV pen and gave her a lengthy hug without saying a word, a silent gesture of respect after learning of her impending departure.
• Driver support: After the news became public, Brookes received video messages from several drivers expressing that they would miss her presence in the paddock.

What's next:

Brookes has already hinted that her F1 journey is far from over, making a recent appearance at Aston Martin's The Lawn event during the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. While her Sky Sports chapter has closed after 17 years with the broadcaster, the strong relationships she maintains within the paddock suggest she will likely remain a familiar face around the Formula 1 ecosystem in some capacity.