Damon Hill admits 'I'm not the same man I was' after quitting Sky Sports F1 role

Damon Hill has made a candid admission with F1 at the end of the season. The iconic British driver, who won the world title with in 1996, has not disclosed the precise reason for his exit after holding talks with the broadcaster earlier this year.

Hill, who had previously appeared sporadically as a pundit for ITV, began his Sky role in 2011.

As well as offering analysis, he also regularly conducted interviews with F1 personnel and has become a popular figure with viewers.

And he's now reacted to a glowing tribute from Billy McGinty, the Sky Sports Director of Formula One, who lauded his contributions. "We thank Damon Hill for 13 incredible years with the Sky Sports F1 team," he said.

"He has been an integral part of our coverage, bringing unparalleled insight, expertise, and passion to our broadcasts. His unique perspective, shaped by his own legendary racing career, has entertained and excited fans worldwide."

McGinty finished by wishing Hill "all the best in his next chapter." What that chapter entails remains to be seen, but Hill's response was as humorous as it was honest.

"Another great photo! Thanks Sky Sports F1," he wrote on X, referring to the image of him posted alongside the tribute by the Sky account. "And adieu. It's been a long and bumpy ride.

"I'm not the same man that got on the bus all them years ago. I will not forget what you have done for me. Merci. (Don't know why I'm suddenly talking French)."

In a separate post the 64-year-old, who will remain partnered with F1 as an ambassador, hailed the influence of his colleagues. "I will miss the most impressive bunch of professionals it has ever been my pleasure to have worked with," he wrote. "Looking forward to new challenges."

Hill's final campaign on the microphone is likely to be best remembered for his verbal battles with reigning world champion Max Verstappen. After the Dutchman received , Hill accused the Red Bull man of driving like 'Dick Dastardly' and trying to pull off 'silly' manoeuvres.

Verstappen responded by telling reporters he didn't care about Hill's opinion, accusing him of British bias. The pundit doubled down on his criticism, but then did also speak glowingly about the 27-year-old .