Fox Broadcast Controversy
Danica Patrick, a former IndyCar and NASCAR driver, appeared as an analyst on Fox Sports for the Freedom 250 Grand Prix that ran through the streets of Washington, DC. Patrick was called up by Fox to serve as an on-air commentator for the race, which was set up to celebrate 250 years of the United States. During the broadcast, Patrick praised President Donald Trump, citing the President’s role in bringing the event to life. She said, “Between the vision of (FOX CEO) Eric Shanks and (Penske Corporation President) Bud Denker, with the help of, of course, Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy and President Donald Trump with that executive order, I think it really embodies what it is to live in America, land of the free, and anything is possible.” Patrick also noted how quickly the race went from concept to reality, calling it a “perfect embodiment and celebration of 250 years of this country.”
Fan Reactions
The commentary drew immediate criticism from IndyCar fans on social media. One user on X wrote, “To watch Danica Patrick and the whole Fox crew verbally felate Trump, is nauseating.” Another posted, “Of course @IndyCarOnFOX brings out the small guns (Chris Myers and Danica Patrick) today.” A third comment read, “Nothing worse about an Indy Car broadcast than hearing Danica Patrick. So many more well-accomplished, deserving drivers with higher accolades, and this is who they chose to fill in that slot.” Several fans also attacked Patrick’s political views, labeling her a “clown” and a “joke on the international motorsports community.” One tweet referenced the controversy with White House staffer Natalie Harp, asking, “Can someone tell @DanicaPatrick that the role of side chick for @POTUS is already filled. This race just feels dirty and corrupt.”
Sky Sports Departure
Patrick’s Fox appearance came after her recent exit from Formula 1 broadcasting. Sky Sports announced on Wednesday that Patrick would not be part of the 2026 season’s lineup, days before the season’s start in March. Patrick had been a regular on Sky’s coverage for five seasons, first appearing during the United States Grand Prix in October 2021. In a farewell Instagram post, she thanked the Sky team, saying, “From my first @skysportsf1 race in Austin to my last 5 years later… I had such a blast!” and noted that she was “glued to my TV for the season starting this weekend.”
Patrick’s outspoken political stance has also drawn attention. She has aligned herself with MAGA and Trump, praising former White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt as an “absolute legend” and congratulating her on stepping away from the White House. These political comments have further polarized fans whenever she appears on screen.
The combination of her Fox commentary, political endorsements, and recent Sky Sports dismissal has left many fans calling for her removal from motorsport broadcasts.
