Rachel Brookes departs Sky Sports F1 after years in the paddock

Rachel Brookes has confirmed her departure from Sky Sports F1, closing a significant chapter with the broadcaster. The well-known paddock reporter announced the move on social media, stating she is leaving to pursue new ventures while making clear that her connection to Formula 1 remains strong.

Why it matters:

Brookes has been a fixture in the F1 paddock for years, building a respected reputation through interviews with drivers, team principals, and key figures throughout race weekends. Her exit marks a notable shift in Sky Sports' broadcast lineup, as she has become one of the most recognizable faces of the network's coverage and a consistent presence at circuits worldwide.

The details:

• Brookes revealed her decision on X, explaining that although her official time with the Sky F1 team has concluded, the sport "still has my heart." She indicated that supporters will continue to see her around the paddock.
• While she has not disclosed specifics regarding her next role, she hinted at exciting projects on the horizon and promised to share further details in the coming weeks.
• Her departure comes during the 2026 season, with Brookes already confirming plans to attend Silverstone, suggesting her transition will not remove her from the F1 environment.

What's next:

The identity of Brookes' next employer or project remains under wraps, but her messaging leaves little doubt that she intends to stay closely connected to the championship. As broadcasters continue to compete for established paddock talent, her next step will be watched closely. For now, the transition appears poised to keep her embedded in the sport she has covered for so long.