Damon Hill is stepping away from his role with Sky Sports (Image: Getty)
Jacques Villeneuve, the 1997 Formula One drivers’ champion, has expressed his willingness to make more appearances as a pundit on Sky Sports in 2025.
When he offered his unguarded commentary at the Canadian Grand Prix in June, viewers were taken by Villeneuve’s direct style, leading to a headline-grabbing spat with following his critical remarks.
His candid insights saw him invited back for the Singapore Grand Prix, during which he did not hesitate to slam ‘s ‘Papaya Rules’ that governed the conduct of racers and .
Villeneuve, who fluently speaks English and French, is well-versed in the role of an analyst having featured regularly for French broadcaster Canal+ and Italian audiences on Sky. Speaking to the , Villeneuve shared his enthusiasm for punditry: “I’ve been having fun doing TV for over 10 years with Canal Plus, I’ve worked with Sky Italia and in 2024 I worked with Sky UK. I had an absolute blast! It was so fun, it was a big group but a really good group.
“I was surprised by how open the conversations were. Whether you agreed or disagreed in conversations, it got you thinking. Concerning next year, of course, I would be happy to do more.”
Sky Sports is keeping its cards close to its chest about who will be gracing the screens as pundits for the 2025 F1 season, but one thing’s for certain: Damon Hill won’t be one of them. The esteemed 1996 champion bid farewell to the broadcaster just last month after a remarkable run of more than ten years offering his insights as a guest commentator.
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Jacques Villeneuve has spoken about his role as a guest at Sky (Image: Getty Images)
Taking to social media, Hill expressed his emotions: “It’s been a fantastic 13 years with Sky Sports F1 but all good things come to an end. I will miss the most impressive bunch of professionals it has ever been my pleasure to have worked with. Looking forward to new challenges.”
According to the , Hill’s departure was anticipated by the higher-ups at Sky Sports, with discussions around his role having taken place well before the ultimate agreement to part company was made. Reflecting on Hill’s tenure, Sky’s F1 chief Billy McGinty paid tribute to his contribution: “We thank Damon Hill for 13 incredible years with the Sky Sports F1 team, where he has been an integral part of our coverage, bringing unparalleled insight, expertise, and passion to our broadcasts. His unique perspective, shaped by his own legendary racing career, has entertained and excited fans worldwide. We wish him all the best in his next chapter.”