Martin Brundle sets record straight on Sky Sports F1 future after replacement rumours

Martin Brundle has set the record straight after reports began to circulate that he was taking a step back from his Sky Sports Formula 1 duties.

The former F1 driver responded to reports claiming that he was reducing the number of races he would be covering in 2026. 

One fan commented on their disappointment at the prospect of seeing less of the Briton on the F1 coverage. "Nooooo! I love Martin Brundle’s commentary. I understand though as he needs to put him and his family first. Thankfully, I love listening to Jenson Button’s insight too," the fan wrote, responding to reports hinting that 2009 champion Jenson Button could replace Brundle. 

"Utter clickbait nonsense Margaret, don’t be concerned," Brundle responded. "I’ve done 16 races per year for a good while now and continue to do so. In fact with the cancellations I am at 15 of the remaining 19 races this season, subject to world events of course, as always."

Button, who has been part of the Sky Sports F1 broadcast team since 2019 after initially joining as a guest analyst for the 2018 British Grand Prix at Silverstone, also chimed in on the rumours.

The 46-year-old added, "I am not positioned to replace Martin, he’s the man when it comes to commentary and insights. As much as I love jumping in when Martin is taking a well-deserved break I wouldn’t want to do more as I’ve got enough going on!"

After retiring from racing, Brundle joined ITV when the network began its F1 coverage in 1997. In 2009, the Briton joined the BBC's commentary team and later moved to Sky Sports at the end of 2011, joining lead commentator David Croft. 

In addition to his co-commentator and analyst role, Brundle is also known for his fan-favourite grid walk during the pre-race build-up.