Rachel Brookes reveals emotional F1 paddock farewell after Sky Sports exit

Rachel Brookes clarifies timing of Sky Sports departure

Former Sky Sports Formula 1 presenter Rachel Brookes has revealed the emotional support she received from Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc after stepping away from the broadcaster.

Brookes left her role ahead of June’s Austrian Grand Prix, bringing a respected 14-year tenure in the Formula 1 paddock to an end. Although the announcement appeared sudden to fans because it came during the season, Brookes said the decision had been managed privately and that she had been able to say goodbye properly.

Speaking on the Essential F1 podcast, she explained: “It appeared very sudden, but it wasn’t. I had a chance to say goodbye to people in the paddock, to people I’ve worked with, teams and drivers.”

That distinction is important. Rather than an abrupt departure, Brookes described a considered farewell that allowed her to close the chapter directly with the people she had worked alongside throughout her long time in the paddock.

Hamilton and Leclerc offer personal messages

One of the most significant moments came from Hamilton. The Ferrari driver, who is enjoying a resurgent 2026 campaign and currently sits second in the drivers’ standings, made time for a private conversation with Brookes.

“I actually had a chance to say goodbye to Lewis,” she said. “I had a lovely chat with Lewis and got some time with him to have a conversation. He was, as you would imagine, really, really lovely, very supportive.”

Brookes chose not to disclose the full conversation, but said photographers captured the pair embracing. Hamilton’s message was equally personal: “I hope I see you back in the paddock soon.” The moment underlined the professional relationships built across Brookes’ years covering Formula 1. Hamilton has also spoken about his strong start to Ferrari’s 2026 campaign.

Leclerc delivered another touching gesture during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend. After finishing his written interviews, the Ferrari team-mate walked over to Brookes and gave her a hug without saying a word. Brookes said she simply thanked him before he left, adding that it was clear someone had already told him about her departure.

“One big family”

Brookes added that drivers who could not see her in person sent heartfelt video messages. Those reactions reinforced her view that the F1 paddock functions as “one big family” despite its intense competitive environment.

She also rejected online speculation that her exit was connected to social media criticism following a 2025 interview with Max Verstappen. Brookes said the matter was “resolved very quickly” and stressed that she remains on good terms with the four-time champion.