As Formula 1 makes its return for the 2024 season, we turn our attention to Naomi Schiff, a Belgian racing driver and television presenter, who is affiliated with Sky Sports F1 in the UK.

Schiff assumed a prominent role on the channel in 2022, hosting the post-race weekend round-up show “Any Given Monday,” providing insightful analysis of race events.

In a significant shift within Sky’s presenting team for the 2023 season, Schiff was appointed as one of the channel’s full-time analysts.

Schiff’s driving career

Starting her racing journey in South Africa, she initially competed in single-seater cars in Formula Volkswagen before venturing into various other disciplines, including RC Formula and Supercar Challenge Superlights. Additionally, she has showcased her skills in endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Zolder and the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. More recently, she participated in six Grands Prix in the W Series in 2019 and was designated as a reserve driver in 2021.

Tackling online abuse

Although Schiff made a remarkable contribution to Sky’s F1 team in 2022, regrettably, not everyone responded favourably to her presence. In the summer, she faced online abuse from a troll who targeted her racing record. However, the F1 community rallied in solidarity, led by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

“Naomi is an ex-professional racing driver and totally qualified to give her opinion as part of the Sky team,” Hamilton wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

“She’s been a great asset since joining and we should welcome more representative broadcasting with open arms. Still have a long way to go to change these attitudes in sport,” Hamilton concluded.

Paving the way

Schiff’s breakthrough in Formula 1 marks a significant milestone, not only for her own career but also for aspiring women of colour in the sport. By making her mark on this historically male-dominated arena, Schiff is setting a powerful example and breaking down barriers for the next generation of female racers from diverse backgrounds. 

As she navigates her journey in this elite motorsport, her achievements serve as inspiration and encouragement for others who aspire to follow in her footsteps. 

With each stride forward, Schiff is not only rewriting the narrative in Formula 1 but also shaping the future landscape of the sport, paving the way for greater inclusivity and diversity. As we witness her progress and accomplishments, the anticipation for what lies ahead in her career journey continues to grow, and we eagerly await the opportunities and achievements that the future holds for her.