Rachel Brookes: The Voice of Formula One and Beyond
Rachel Brookes is a respected Broadcast Journalist at Sky Sports, a seasoned presenter, and a familiar face to millions of Formula One fans around the world. Known for her articulate style, confidence in high-pressure situations, and ability to engage drivers, team principals, and fans alike, she has become one of the most recognisable figures in modern sports broadcasting. Beyond Formula One, her career spans radio, television, event hosting, and even podcasting, making her a true all-rounder in the media industry.
This article explores Rachel Brookes’ professional journey, her role in Formula One, her experience at leading media organisations, and the skills that make her a powerful communicator.
Early Career and Entry into Broadcasting
Rachel Brookes’ career has always been rooted in communication and presentation. Before her rise in television, she honed her skills in different fields, including event management, where she worked as an Operations Manager at Mainline Events in the 1990s. Her time in events allowed her to develop essential interpersonal and organisational skills that would later serve her in broadcasting.
By the early 2000s, she had begun working in radio, most notably with GCap Media between 2001 and 2005. Here, Rachel established herself as a confident voice on air, learning the nuances of presenting and engaging diverse audiences. These early steps laid the foundation for what would become a distinguished career in sports media.
Expanding Horizons: ITN, IMG Media, and Now Sports
Work with ITN
Between 2007 and 2009, Rachel Brookes worked as a presenter with ITN, one of the UK’s leading news providers. The role demanded accuracy, composure, and the ability to handle breaking news stories. Her time at ITN allowed her to sharpen her reporting skills and gain further credibility in the highly competitive media landscape.
Freelance Reporting with IMG Media and Now Sports
From 2009 to 2011, Rachel embraced freelance opportunities, reporting for IMG Media and Now Sports. These roles offered variety, as she covered a wide range of sporting events and stories. Freelance work required flexibility, resilience, and strong initiative—qualities she displayed consistently.
Her involvement with Now Sports also strengthened her global outlook on broadcasting, as she reported on stories with international relevance, further broadening her expertise.
talkSPORT and the Grand Prix Podcast
In 2017, Rachel Brookes joined talkSPORT, where she hosted the Grand Prix podcast during the Formula One season. Collaborating with journalist Kevin Eason, she brought insightful discussions, interviews, and analysis to listeners.
The podcast was more than just a summary of races—it provided behind-the-scenes perspectives, direct conversations with drivers, and thought-provoking debates about the state of the sport. Rachel’s calm yet probing interview style helped create memorable content, and her work on talkSPORT remains an important part of her broadcasting journey.
Sky Sports: A Career-Defining Role
Joining Sky
Rachel Brookes’ most prominent role has been at Sky Sports, where she has been employed since 2011. Over the years, she has become an integral member of the Sky Sports News HQ and Sky Sports F1 teams. Her specialisation in Formula One and cricket reflects her versatility across both fast-paced motorsport and one of the UK’s most traditional sports.
Rachel Brookes F1
As part of the Sky Sports F1 team, Rachel has covered countless Grands Prix, interviewing some of the biggest names in the sport. Her presence in the paddock, pit lane, and on-screen discussions has made her one of the most respected voices in Formula One journalism.
She is admired not only for her professionalism but also for her persistence in asking difficult questions, even in moments of controversy. Her interactions with world champions and rising stars alike have shaped how millions of viewers experience Formula One.
Skills and Strengths
Her role at Sky Sports F1 highlights her ability to handle live broadcasting with composure, adapt quickly to unpredictable events on track, and maintain strong relationships within the sport. Her skills include communication, presentation, project management, stakeholder engagement, and client relations, all of which contribute to her success.
Rachel Brookes Wikipedia and Online Presence
Unlike many public figures, Rachel Brookes does not currently have a detailed Wikipedia page dedicated solely to her. However, she is often mentioned in relation to Sky Sports F1 and in other Formula One-related entries. Fans searching for her biography often rely on media coverage, interviews, and professional profiles that highlight her career milestones.
Despite this, Rachel has a notable online presence through interviews, podcasts, and event hosting. She is also known for her social media engagement, where she has connected directly with fans, though she has occasionally stepped back due to online abuse—a reflection of the challenges faced by women in sports journalism.
Rachel Brookes F1 Age
Rachel Brookes was born on 21 August 1974, making her 51 years old in 2025. Her age reflects not only her experience but also her longevity in a demanding and evolving industry. She continues to bring fresh perspectives to her work, demonstrating that passion and expertise in sports journalism are not bound by time.
Beyond the Screen: Corporate Host, Speaker, and Podcast Presenter
Outside of her television work, Rachel is also an accomplished corporate host and speaker. She has presented at numerous events, webinars, and conferences, drawing on her broadcasting background to engage audiences with clarity and confidence.
As a podcast host, she has extended her skills into digital platforms, where she discusses sports, media, and broader cultural themes. Her ability to connect with diverse audiences has made her a sought-after figure for both corporate and public engagements.
Rachel also works as a media trainer, coaching individuals and organisations on effective communication strategies. Her knowledge of broadcasting and public speaking makes her an ideal mentor for those looking to improve their presence in front of cameras or live audiences.
Legacy and Inspiration
Rachel Brookes’ career is a testament to determination, adaptability, and professionalism. From her early days in radio to her high-profile role at Sky Sports F1, she has consistently broken barriers and shown resilience in an industry that is often fast-paced and male-dominated.
Her journey inspires aspiring journalists, broadcasters, and women aiming to carve out careers in sports media. With her sharp interviewing style, commanding presence, and genuine love for sport, Rachel Brookes continues to set an example for the next generation.
Conclusion
Rachel Brookes is more than just a familiar face on Sky Sports F1. She is a seasoned professional whose journey reflects years of hard work, diverse experiences, and unwavering commitment to journalism. From her time at ITN, IMG Media, Now Sports, and talkSPORT, to her defining role at Sky Sports, she has proven her ability to excel across multiple platforms.
Whether on television, radio, or the stage of a corporate event, Rachel Brookes remains a respected voice in broadcasting—an inspiration for those who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
