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Harry Benjamin is preparing for his Sky F1 lead commentator debut in the place of David Croft at Imola for the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.
Ahead of the 2024 F1 season, it was announced that Croft would be exempted from participating in three race weekends: the Emilia Romagna, Austrian, and Azerbaijan GPs. This decision was made to provide some relief to Croft as the F1 calendar for that year was set to include an unprecedented 24 rounds.
Harry Benjamin ‘excited’ over Sky F1 opportunity
Former Formula 1 driver Karun Chandhok, who has been a part of Sky’s Formula 1 coverage since 2019, will be joining Benjamin in the commentary box at Imola for the first race weekend off.
When asked on the Sky F1 podcast about his anticipation for the upcoming race weekend, Benjamin expressed his excitement, acknowledging the responsibility that comes with the task but still eagerly looking forward to it.
“I feel honored to have accomplished this feat at such an iconic track like Imola, and to have been standing alongside Karun as well.”
Chandhok eagerly anticipates the upcoming race weekend, marking his return to the F1 paddock after his last appearance at Round 2 in Saudi Arabia.
He expressed his excitement about going to Imola, stating that he hadn’t been in the paddock since Jeddah as they had done a few races in the studio in London.
“And lots of change, lots has been going on. Lando [Norris] has won a race. I’m really excited to do this weekend with Harry actually. I think it’s going to be fun.”
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Nevertheless, the pair is not waiting until FP1 at Imola to experience their first attempt at commentating as a team. Chandhok disclosed that he contacted Benjamin and organized a visit to Sky headquarters to undergo some training sessions.
Chandhok explained the origin of the situation by stating, “I messaged Harry, informing him that we have never engaged in any form of commentary in previous championships.”
“And it is essential to establish a connection and gain an understanding of the other individual’s approach.”
“Each commentator possesses their unique style, and every co-commentator contributes a distinct element to the mix. Instead of simply jumping into the weekend, I decided to reach out to him via text and proposed, ‘Shall we consider a practice run?'”
Benjamin expressed his agreement with Chandhok’s suggestion, describing it as a “brilliant idea.” He further emphasized the significance of this plan for himself, echoing Karun’s points, and highlighted the value it holds in familiarizing oneself with the process of working alongside…
“People may not be aware that while watching commentary, there is a producer guiding the commentators by providing instructions or suggestions on how to transition to Ted Kravitz or any other relevant information he may have. It’s important for me to stay informed about all the procedures and protocols involved.”
Benjamin possesses a wealth of F1 broadcasting experience, including his leadership role in BBC Radio 5 Live’s coverage of the sport. Additionally, he has spearheaded Sky F1’s alternate F1 Kids broadcast.
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