Channel 4’s commentary team for this weekend’s Austrian Grand Prix will not feature three of its key members due to a positive COVID-19 test result.
Former racer turned F1 pundit Billy Monger tested positive ahead of the weekend, meaning he won’t be taking part in his broadcasting duties for both F1 and W Series.
Lead commentator Alex Jacques and lead presenter Steve Jones have both been forced to isolate as a result, as they spent time with Monger prior to his positive test result.
Ben Edwards will stand in for Jacques in the commentary booth, working remotely from the UK, whilst David Coulthard will remain co-commentator. He is currently in Austria.
“Whisper can confirm that a member its production team has tested positive for Covid-19 since arriving in Austria ahead of the Formula 1 event and W Series event this weekend,” Channel 4’s broadcast partner Whisper confirmed in a statement to Motorsport Broadcasting.
“Whisper produces the W Series Host Broadcast and highlights of F1 for Channel 4. As a result, some of the Whisper production team are now isolating, in line with FIA protocol until further notice.”
Not surprised, especially Steve Jones who cannot leave his face covering alone, constantly tweaking it with his hand – same goes for DC! You would think the F1 tecs could design a face mask that allows people to talk without it slipping down the face, the Grand Tour cyclists seem to have it sussed, but they are not so “proud”!
Every cloud has a silver lining. Having Ben Edwards back on the commentary team, such a relief after the awful delivery from Alex Jacques in recent weeks. Lets hope Channel 4 can persuade Ben to return, but if not they really need to replace Jacques.
lol @ the idea of still being worried about Covid-19, which kills only extremely obese, ancient and in general those who are already of poor health, just like… surprise… any other disease. I bet all of these people are vaccinated as well, which makes it even more funny.
You are sick in the mind, my late friend , slim, fit 48 year old, who had lived with asthma for years, died with Covid, shall I tell her family that she didn’t deserve to live. You should be ashamed of yourself.
Well said
Get well soon Steve. There is only so much I can take of Mark Up Your Chuff Mate Webber. He must’ve said “mate” a million times. Had to turn off when the race ended. Was a real joy to hear Ben Edwards again though. He and David Under Rotation Coultard were a good team.
Please bring Ben Edwards back full time, Alex Jacques is awful.
I think Mercedes should get fined and Hamilton should get all the points taken of him and so should Mercedes get the points taken of for winning