Former Sky Sports presenter Rachel Brookes has stated that her decision to leave her role as a reporter for the network's Formula 1 coverage was a planned departure and not influenced by online fan abuse. Brookes, who had been with Sky Sports for 14 years, announced her exit in June, shortly before the Austrian Grand Prix. She confirmed that the timing, which appeared sudden, allowed her to say farewells to colleagues, teams, and drivers.
Brookes described a supportive conversation with seven-time Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, who expressed his well wishes and gave her a hug. "He was, as you would imagine, really, really lovely, very supportive," Brookes said of their interaction. "There's a lovely photo at the end of it where he gives me a massive hug and he says 'I hope I see you back in the paddock soon,' which was really lovely."
She also shared a similar moment with Charles Leclerc, who offered a silent hug. Brookes noted receiving video messages from other drivers after her departure was announced, describing the paddock as a "family" and expressing surprise at the outpouring of support. She plans to remain involved in Formula 1 and will share future ventures with fans.
Brookes' departure announcement followed her public statement about experiencing "utterly horrendous" abuse from fans after an interview with Max Verstappen during the previous season. However, she adamantly denied that this abuse was linked to her decision to leave Sky Sports. "It was nothing to do with comments and abuse I got online last year at all," Brookes insisted. "That was resolved very quickly, and I’ve got a great relationship with Max."
The interview in question occurred after the Spanish Grand Prix, where Verstappen received a penalty for colliding with George Russell. Brookes had asked Verstappen on camera if the collision was deliberate, prompting a response of "Does it matter?". Brookes countered that it did matter to fans and young viewers. She later stated that while broadcasting peers praised her for asking the question, social media response was "horrendous," including deeply personal and abusive messages.
Verstappen ultimately finished the 2023 season second in the driver's championship, losing to Lando Norris by a narrow margin.