It has now been confirmed that Sky Sports’ coverage of the 2023 season will not feature Johnny Herbert or Paul di Resta, after speculation was sparked surrounding the futures of the two presenters.
It was a post on social media that initially saw fans learn about Herbert’s departure from Sky, as he posted a photo of himself and his Sky Sports’ colleagues on Instagram, with the caption “going to miss the team.”
This slightly vague post was given more context by the replies, with pundit Natalie Pinkham responding “Johnny, love you forever ever” while Rachel Brookes claimed that the sport “won’t be the same” without him.
Motorsport creator Last Lap Lucy managed to catch Herbert for an interview and shared the exclusive to social media, where the 58-year-old confirmed the rumours.
READ: Haas announce 2023 reserve driver after Mick Schumacher snub
“I’m not with Sky this year, unfortunately, but there are other things I’ll be getting involved with,” he said.
“I’ll be at Silverstone for sure, and the Monaco Grand Prix. I’m hoping to get to Le Mans as well this year, because that’s going to be a big event this time around.
“I’m doing a bit of karting – not racing, just testing. My son-in-law wants me to race but I don’t really want to, but you’ll probably see me on a go-kart track near you.
“I’ve got various things going on. I’m enjoying things on the track and also life off the track as well.”
Mirror Sport also approached Sky Sports for a statement and a spokesperson did confirm that Johnny Herbert will not be a part of their 2023 presenting lineup.
“Johnny has been an integral part of our Formula 1 team since the very first season on Sky Sports in 2012,” they said.
READ: Toto Wolff fires warning shot at rivals ahead of pre-season testing
“We will miss his humour and big personality and thank him for his energy and enthusiasm over the last 11 years. Everyone wishes him all the best for the future.”
Paul di Resta’s departure from Sky has been a lot more low-key, as not official explanation for his absence from the lineup has been given by either party.
The racing calendar is the most likely reason for his departure, as Di Resta’s desire to take part in the World Endurance Championship and European Le Mans Series will clash with a number of F1 races over the coruse of the season.