BBC 'voice of F1' commentator sacked over 'inappropriate behaviour' allegations

17 June 2023 , 16:48

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Jack Nicholls (far left) has been sacked from BBC Radio 5 Live's F1 coverage (Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Formula E)

Jack Nicholls has been sacked from his BBC Radio 5 Live commentator role amid allegations of "inappropriate touching" made by three people.

Nicholls had already been axed by Formula E as the electric racing series' lead commentator. And he had been taken off air ahead of last month's Monaco Grand Prix by IMG, which produces the BBC's radio coverage of Formula 1.

IMG has now taken the decision to sack Nicholls permanently. The company confirmed the news in a statement to the Independent.

A spokesperson said: "IMG has decided to part ways with Jack Nicholls in light of the incidents that led to his departure from Formula E."

The first complaint about Nicholls was made in March, alleging inappropriate behaviour on his part. In total, three individuals made complaints about his conduct, one of whom was in a relationship with him at the time.

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After an investigation, it was towards the end of May that Formula E made the decision to cut him from their coverage. Ben Edwards replaces him for the Jakarta ePrix and the rest of this season.

A spokesperson for the series told Mirror Sport at the time: "Formula E can confirm that an investigation was carried out in response to complaints of inappropriate behaviour received about Jack Nicholls. Following this investigation, Jack Nicholls’ contract to provide race commentary was terminated."

Jack Nicholls (right) was also axed by Formula E (NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Nicholls released a statement of his own after that news was made public. "Although disappointed with the decision, I respect it and accept why it was taken," he said.

"I want to take full responsibility for what I did and apologise unreservedly for a couple of isolated incidents that has made those concerned feel uncomfortable. I never meant any harm and I am committed to making amends and to be more mindful of my behaviour in future."

The BBC's radio coverage of the Canadian Grand Prix will continue this weekend as planned. Rosanna Tennant, Harry Benjamin and Oliver Askew can be heard over the airwaves from Montreal.

Daniel Moxon