Why isn't David Croft at Emilia Romagna GP? Reason for voice of Sky Sports F1's absence
F1 fans will be hearing a different voice on the Sky Sports F1 broadcast for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this weekend.
David Croft - commonly referred to as ‘Crofty’ - has established himself as the voice of F1 in the United Kingdom, but the experienced commentator will miss the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix this weekend with BBC Radio 5 Live’s Harry Benjamin stepping into the booth in his place.
The 53-year-old has been ever-present in Sky Sports’ coverage since the broadcaster took over the exclusive UK rights from the BBC back in 2012. In fact, Croft has been in the commentary booth for every single Grand Prix during that period, but that run has come to an end in Imola as Benjamin takes over.
Sunday’s Emilia Romagna Grand Prix will be one of three races missed by Croft this year as he attempts to manage the workload that comes with a record-breaking 24-race calendar. The increased strain on race-going members of the paddock has been well documented as F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali pushes for more and more on-track action.
Speaking to The Independent about his decision, Croft said: “It’s more about keeping fresh for the whole season. I’m not getting any younger. I’ve given up and sacrificed a lot for my career. I want to give a bit of time back to my family and not be on the other side of the world. I’m getting married this year as well, so I’ve got a wedding to organise!
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
“But I also want to sit and watch a race at home. I want to enjoy it. Maybe I can learn something by not commentating on a race. I can spot a few things when I’m watching – I want to see what the viewer sees.”
Benjamin, who has made a name for himself with his radio commentary for the BBC, as well as his impressive work with Sky Sports F1’s kids broadcast, expressed his delight about the call-up on the broadcaster’s F1 podcast ahead of the Emilia Romagna GP.
“Yeah, very excited,” he explained. “I mean, big shoes to fill, but I’m looking forward to it. What a track to do it at as well, Imola, and stood alongside Karun [Chandhok] too. I’m honoured.”
As touched on by Benjamin, it is not just Croft who is sitting out the race in Imola as co-commentator Martin Brundle will also be absent from the booth with Karun Chandhok stepping up from his punditry role to fill in for the veteran broadcaster.