Ever heard of the name Murray Walker? The late British journalist was the voice of Formula 1 for decades, journeying with the likes of legendary world champions including Niki Lauda, Alain Prost, Michael Schumacher, and Ayrton Senna. However, following Walker’s shocking retirement in 2001, the sport needed an impeccable commentator to fill the rather irreplaceable void. And then began the era of David Croft.
After years of hard work, Croft eventually earned his formidable spot in the F1 commentary box along with former drivers, Anthony Davidson and Martin Brundle. In Walker’s case, the legendary commentator was known for his unforgettable commentary at the start of every race – “And it’s go go go…” the Birmingham-based star would say.
Similarly, Crofty was lauded for his own style of commentating on the start of every race, which he has maintained to this very day. “It’s lights out and away we go,” the former BBC commentator voices as cars clank and clatter their way to the first corner.
the best thing has happened to me. @CroftyF1 @DHL_Motorsports @F1 pic.twitter.com/qm3mQ5YilH
— jan (@jannathecreator) March 11, 2022
Therefore, having built his own fortress in the motorsport community, one might wonder how much Croft earns as the lead commentator for what is undeniably the most elite motorsport championship in the world. According to multiple reports, Croft means a lot to Sky Sports, and hence, receives a promising paycheck from the leading media house in the United Kingdom.
Is David Croft the highest-paid F1 commentator?
According to multiple reports, Croft has amassed a net worth of over $10 million over his whopping 25-year journey as a commentator. Furthermore, the Briton earns nearly $1 million every year as one of the lead presenters at Sky Sports. But, is he the highest-paid presenter at Sky Sports? No.
It is Brundle who receives the biggest paycheck, having traveled with the sport for over 30-odd years, not only as a commentator but also as a racing driver. Not to forget, Brundle is usually the one who gets tangled in controversies through his exhilarating pre-race show on the grid. Furthermore, the 64-year-old is also known for his near-accurate opinions.
Overall, despite being surrounded by such experienced motorsport talents, Croft has remained the lead commentator for Sky Sports F1, thanks to his entertaining track which somehow lures the viewers’ entire attention.
Therefore, having set his own benchmark in the sport and inching towards retirement, who do you think could succeed the 53-year-old as the lead F1 commentator in the future? Will there ever be another Crofty or Walker for the sport?
