Surprise new addition to Sky F1 team announced for Canadian Grand Prix

Jacques Villeneuve, the 1997 F1 World Champion.

Sky F1 have announced that 1997 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve will join their punditry line-up for the Canadian Grand Prix this weekend.

The ex-Williams and BAR driver, who has become a well-known motorsport pundit globally, will make a one-time appearance on the British-based channel this weekend.

Jacques Villeneuve to join Sky F1 team at Canadian Grand Prix

Villeneuve, who has previously appeared on the channel during the 2012 Canadian Grand Prix, has also become a well-known motorsport pundit in addition to his racing career, providing commentary for various channels globally.

The 1997 World Champion, known for his straightforward views on Formula 1, has lent his commentary to Canal+ in France and Sky Italia in the past.

The 53-year-old is scheduled to feature in all of Sky F1’s race coverage this weekend at his home circuit.

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Villeneuve’s views have frequently grabbed headlines over the years. He has also been prominently featured in recent interviews on PlanetF1.com. His most recent discussion revolved around the challenging schedule of the current Formula 1 calendar and the season’s conclusion with a worldwide triple-header.

“That’s gonna be brutal,” he said in our most recent exclusive at the start of the year.

The late-season double-header in [2023] has already posed a challenge due to the logistics of flying back from Las Vegas. The airport there is not the easiest to fly from, but it’s manageable for larger teams. They have the resources to rent a large plane, accommodate all their mechanics, and proceed with the flight.

The media is truly suffering right now, seemingly forgotten amidst all the current events. With escalating costs for necessities like hotels and travel, their trips are becoming incredibly complex and challenging.

However, teams usually find ways to commute. Although staff rotations can be effective, they can also be strenuous for the staff. The timezone can cause issues as it results in lost time when coming in, rather than gaining it.

Setting everything up, including the teams and catering, can be very hectic. It’s time-consuming and can be a bit tough.

“Having three in a row will be quite exhausting, even though Qatar is not far from here. This is particularly true towards the end of the year, with the season wrapping up in December. The mechanics will also find it challenging, not just the drivers.”

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