Will Netflix follow BBC and axe ‘Voice of F1’ Jack Nicholls? Commentator, 33, faces uncertainty over other roles after he was sacked from Radio 5 Live and Formula E over inappropriate touching allegations
The ‘Voice of Formula 1’ faces an anxious wait over the future of a lucrative presenting deal with Netflix after he was sacked by BBC Radio 5 Live over allegations of inappropriate touching.
Jack Nicholls, 33, had already lost a commentary role with Formula E two weeks ago after the electric car racing series investigated the claims from three separate people.
He was then taken off air ahead for last month’s Monaco Grand Prix by IMG, which produces the BBC’s radio coverage of F1. But late last week it emerged IMG had taken the decision to sack him permanently.
Nicholls had covered every F1 race since 2016 for BBC Radio 5 Live and, in 2019, picked up a similar role in Netflix’s hit series ‘Drive to Survive’.
The show, which offers a behind the scenes glimpse at the Formula One World Championships, premiered on March 8, 2019, and on May 5 last year it was renewed for a fifth and a sixth season.
Jack Nicholls, 33, had already lost a commentary role with Formula E two weeks ago after the electric car racing series investigated the claims from three separate people
MailOnline contacted Netflix today to enquire about Nicholl’s future on the popular show.
One of the alleged victims is thought to have been in a junior colleague of Nicholls with whom he was in a relationship – breaking Formula E’s conduct rules.
The other two complaints were reportedly made by witnesses.
The incidents are said to have taken place across the world, including in Rome and Cape Town.
Nicholls has been a huge part of the Formula E electric racing series since it was launched in 2014 and is a familiar voice to fans across the world.
The allegations made against him have sent shockwaves through the racing community, with many surprised by their nature.
IMG confirmed it had sacked Nicholls on Friday, saying in a statement: ‘We have decided to part ways with Jack Nicholls in light of the incidents that led to his departure from Formula E.’
Nicholls had covered every F1 race since 2016 for BBC Radio 5 Live
Formula E confirmed his departure at the end of May.
‘We can confirm an investigation was carried out in response to complaints of inappropriate behaviour,’ a spokesman said.
‘Following this, Jack Nicholls’ contract to provide race commentary was terminated.’
Nicholls said afterwards: ‘Although disappointed with the decision, I respect it and accept why it was taken.
‘I want to take full responsibility for what I did and apologise unreservedly for a couple of isolated incidents that have 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.’
A graduate of Birmingham City University, Nicholls had his big break in 2011 when he was asked to provide commentary on the live FIA Formula 2 TV coverage.
The incidents are said to have taken place across the world, including in Rome and Cape Town
In 2014, he revealed how he had dreamed about becoming a racing commentator from a young age.
‘People either grow up wanting to be a commentator or they fall into it, and it was very much the former for me,’ he told EPD24.
‘At a very young age I would race my toy cars around a track made from hardboard and would commentate on it.
‘For some reason it’s something I’ve always wanted to do and for me it is the best job – what I love about being a commentator is that your job is during the event and you’re making your event exciting, you are right in the thick of the action.’
Nicholls has also commentated on football matches and the Winter Olympics.
MailOnline has contacted his representative for comment.
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