David Croft misses Azerbaijan GP as Harry Benjamin steps in

David Croft, a prominent Formula One commentator for Sky Sports, is absent from the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as he is on his honeymoon following his wedding in France last week. Croft married Laura Bradley, and their wedding was attended by notable figures from the F1 community, including co-commentator Karun Chandhok and former world champion Damon Hill. This absence has led Sky Sports to enlist Harry Benjamin to cover the race in Baku, a role he previously filled during the Austrian Grand Prix. Croft has expressed a desire to reduce his travel commitments and spend more time with his family, a sentiment he shared earlier this year. He has been gradually cutting back on the number of races he covers, aiming to maintain a fresh perspective on his work. The commentator has acknowledged the toll that the demanding travel schedule takes on his personal life, emphasizing the need for a better balance between his career and family time. The decision to take time off for his honeymoon reflects Croft's commitment to prioritizing family, especially as he embarks on this new chapter of his life. He has also mentioned wanting to experience races as a viewer, which could provide him with new insights into the sport. This shift in focus may influence his future involvement in the F1 commentary scene. Overall, Croft's absence from the Azerbaijan GP marks a significant moment in his career, as he navigates the challenges of balancing professional obligations with personal milestones.