Sky Sports F1 praised for reaction to sudden staff emergency in Baku
Sky Sports F1 have been praised for their swift action after presenter Rachel Brookes required emergency surgery in Baku. The presenter was due to appear in the paddock on behalf of the UK broadcaster in Azerbaijan but had to remain off-screen. Brookes will return for the United States Grand Prix next month.
Brookes explained the ordeal on her social media page. The 50-year-old journalist who previously worked at Kiss FM, explained how it started as soon as she landed in Azerbaijan.
"So I landed here Tuesday night and felt poorly. Thought it was just nasty food poisoning but yesterday found out that I had appendicitis and needed surgery. I’ve had the appendectomy and all good," Brookes said. Carlos Sainz had a similar situation during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix earlier in the 2024 season. Alex Albon was also forced to miss a race due to appendicitis.
Sky Sports F1 praised for swift action
"Just want to say a massive thanks to all my colleagues at Sky Sports F1 for stepping up, stepping in to cover, and sending me so many messages. We really do have the best team! And also to Sky as a company for pulling out all the stops to get me the best care and flying out my sister for support. So, basically, that’s why I wasn’t on the coverage this weekend… see you all in Texas," she added to her message.
The presenter concluded her message by thanking the staff at the Baku hospital and the medical staff at the Baku Circuit. David Croft was also missing from the Sky Sports F1 team this weekend as he was busy celebrating his recent wedding.
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