Damon Hill admits ‘I’m not the same man I was’ after leaving his role at Sky Sports F1 | F1

Damon Hill has made a candid admission after confirming he will leave his role at Sky Sports F1 at the end of the season. The iconic British driver, who won the world title with Williams in 1996, has not revealed the exact reason for his departure following discussions with the broadcaster earlier this year.

Hill, who had previously appeared sporadically as a pundit for ITV, started his Sky role in 2011.

As well as offering analysis, he also regularly conducted interviews with F1 staff and has become a popular figure with viewers.

And he has now responded to a glowing tribute from Formula 1’s Sky Sports Director Billy McGinty, who praised his contributions. “We thank Damon Hill for thirteen incredible years with the Sky Sports F1 team,” he said.

“He has been an integral part of our reporting, bringing unparalleled insight, expertise and passion to our broadcasts. His unique perspective, shaped by his own legendary racing career, has entertained and excited fans around the world.”

McGinty ended by wishing Hill “all the best in his next chapter.” What that chapter entails remains to be seen, but Hill’s response was as humorous as it was honest.

“Another great photo! Thank you Sky Sports F1,” he wrote on X, referring to the photo of him posted alongside the tribute by the Sky account. ‘And adieu. It’s been a long and bumpy ride.

“I’m not the same guy who got on the bus all those years ago. I won’t forget what you did for me. Thank you. (I don’t know why I’m suddenly speaking French).”

In a separate post, the 64-year-old, who will remain associated with F1 as an ambassador, praised the influence of his colleagues. “I will miss the most impressive group of professionals I have ever had the pleasure of working with,” he wrote. “I’m looking forward to new challenges.”