David Croft's Absence: Who's Filling His Shoes for Sky F1's Baku Coverage?

Formula 1 fans are in for a change this weekend as they tune in to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The familiar voice of David Croft, known for his iconic "It's lights out and away we go" call, will be absent from the commentary box. Instead, Harry Benjamin will step in to lead the Sky Sports F1 coverage for this race. This marks another notable absence for Croft in what has been an unprecedented season for the veteran commentator.

Croft's Absence and Its Significance

David Croft, affectionately known as 'Crofty', has been a staple of Sky Sports F1 commentary since the broadcaster acquired the rights from the BBC in 2012. For the past 12 years, he has been a constant presence, not missing a single race until this season. The decision to step back from some lead commentary duties this year comes as Croft aims to spend more time with his family, particularly in light of his recent wedding.

The 2024 season, with its record-breaking 24-race calendar, has already seen Croft miss two races - the Imola GP and the Austrian GP. The Azerbaijan GP will mark his third absence, a significant departure from his usual unwavering attendance. This change highlights the demanding nature of the expanded F1 calendar, which includes four double-headers and two triple-headers.

The Rise of Harry Benjamin

Stepping into Croft's shoes for the Azerbaijan GP is Harry Benjamin, a rising star in F1 broadcasting. Benjamin is no stranger to live F1 commentary, having already covered for Croft during the Imola and Austrian GPs this season. His experience extends beyond Sky Sports, as he currently splits his duties between F1 TV and BBC Radio 5 Live.

Benjamin joined the Formula 1 broadcasting team in 2021 and has since worked across various motorsport series, including F2, F3, F1 Academy, and the Porsche Supercup. His versatility and growing reputation in the sport make him a natural choice to fill in for Croft. Fans may also recognize Benjamin's voice from season six of Drive to Survive, where he provided voiceovers for on-track action.

Looking Ahead: Croft's Return

For those eagerly awaiting Croft's return, the wait won't be long. He is set to be back in the commentary box for the Singapore Grand Prix on September 22nd. This brief hiatus for Croft represents a new era in F1 broadcasting, where the demands of an ever-expanding calendar are balanced with personal commitments and the need to nurture new talent in the commentary booth.

As the sport continues to evolve, so too does its coverage. While change can be unsettling for longtime fans, it also brings fresh perspectives and voices to the sport we love. The temporary shift in commentary at the Azerbaijan GP is a testament to the depth of talent in F1 broadcasting and the sport's ability to adapt to new challenges.