Martin Brundle, a renowned Formula 1 commentator, has been awarded the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by the British Royal Family.
The former driver, famous for his pre-race interviews, was recognized for his services to motor racing and sports broadcasting.
Prince William, heir to the British throne, presented the award at Windsor Castle.
Brundle has become an emblematic figure in Formula 1 broadcasts, since he began conducting pre-race interviews at the 1997 British Grand Prix.
Currently, Brundle is accompanied by numerous journalists who perform the same task.
The Briton’s unexpected moments on the grid, such as his viral interaction with Megan Thee Stallion before the 2021 United States Grand Prix, or when he mistook Paolo Banchero for Patrick Mahomes before the 2022 Miami Grand Prix, have only contributed to increasing the popularity of his spontaneous style.
It made me feel very fortunate and privileged because you always receive something like that on behalf of a lot of people, whether they were designing, creating and fixing my race cars, or working with us in the broadcasting industry.
Martin Brundle
Brundle explained that the format for which he has become famous has evolved over time.
We’re just there to tell the story, the stories about the cars and the drivers, and we’re there to explain what is a fast-moving, highly complex sport. We try to find people, we talk, and I think, as it’s a bit risky and sometimes fails miserably, I think people live it, whether I have a good day or a bad day.
Martin Brundle
Mercedes driver George Russell led the congratulations to Brundle after the award was made public, posting on social media: “Congratulations Martin, well deserved! The best in the business!”
