Brundle honored with OBE for lifetime contribution to motorsport

Former Formula 1 driver and esteemed broadcaster Martin Brundle has been awarded an OBE in the King's New Year's Honours list for 2025.

He was recognised for his outstanding contribution to motorsport and sports broadcasting over a career spanning four decades.

The 65-year-old Norfolk-born commentator, who competed in 158 grand prix between 1984 and 1996, has become one of the most respected voices in Formula 1 through his work with ITV, BBC, and currently Sky Sports F1.

From Racing to Broadcasting

While Brundle never secured a Formula 1 victory as a driver, his racing career included significant achievements outside the sport.

He claimed the World Sportscar Championship with Jaguar in 1988 and followed this with victory at the prestigious Le Mans 24 Hours in 1990.

His transition to broadcasting brought a new dimension to Formula 1 coverage, with his technical insight and unprecedented access to the sport's inner workings becoming hallmarks of his commentary style.

Brundle's pre-race grid walks, where he conducts live, unrehearsed interviews with drivers, team personnel, and celebrities, have become a beloved fixture of Formula 1 broadcasts.

Industry Recognition and Ongoing Impact

The honour has been warmly received within the motorsport community.

Former colleague and 1996 Formula 1 World Champion Damon Hill praised Brundle's exceptional broadcasting talents, describing him as "the Bard of Kings Lynn" and noting how he "retains perfect posture when all around are flapping ducks."

Fellow Sky Sports F1 commentator Karun Chandhok compared Brundle's broadcasting excellence to that of legendary F1 designer Adrian Newey, highlighting his commitment to maintaining cutting-edge knowledge of the sport.

Beyond his broadcasting role, Brundle serves as chairman of the Grand Prix Trust, supporting Formula 1 personnel and fostering new talent in the sport.

His multiple RTS Television Sports Awards for best Sports Pundit further underscore his significant impact on sports broadcasting.

The OBE recognition celebrates not only his achievements in motorsport but also his role in bringing the complex world of Formula 1 to millions of viewers through his insightful and engaging commentary.