After much rumour and speculation the BBC has revealed its full commentary line-up for the 2009 Formula One season, with David Coulthard and Eddie Jordan joining Martin Brundle as the British broadcaster takes over coverage of the sport after over a decade on ITV.
Six-time Royal Television Sports Award winner Martin Brundle confirmed his switch to the Beeb last week and today the British broadcaster announced that he will be supported by studio analysis from David Coulthard and former team boss Eddie Jordan, with Radio Five Live commentator Jonathan Legard leading the actual race commentary with Brundle.
“After 15 seasons competing in F1, my passion for the sport is still very much alive,†Coulthard told the BBC.
“Therefore I was delighted to be given the opportunity to share my views and experiences through the BBC coverage of F1.
“Many of the BBC team are known to me already and, for those members new to F1, I look forward to building on the established audience of F1 fans in the UK.â€
The pre-race show will be presented by CBBC and Football Focus presenter Jake Humphrey, alongside Coulthard and Jordan.
Ted Kravitz will continue his ITV role as pit-lane reporter alongside new addition Lee McKenzie, the daughter of Daily Express F1 correspondent Bob McKenzie.
Murray Walker will also be part of the BBC’s coverage via the BBC Sport website where he will offer “expert insight” and “passionate perspective” on the sport, as well as interacting with F1 fans online.
The BBC has obtained the rights to broadcast Formula One from ITV until the end of 2013 with exclusive rights to TV, radio, broadband and mobile.
“We have put a fantastic team together and are delighted to be able to offer a comprehensive and engaging Formula 1 experience,†said BBC head of F1 Niall Sloane. “This is an exciting sport, and we are very much looking forward to next year.â€
