Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
At a time when many of his former Network Ten colleagues have lost their jobs, Australian television commentator/presenter Leigh Diffey has cracked a plum position in the United States, calling Formula One and Indycar races on the giant NBC Sports Network in 2013.
Former Queensland physical education school teacher Diffey, who has been working in the US for several years (most recently with the Speed cable channel), will head up an NBC team that also includes ex-racer David Hobbs and one-time F1 mechanic Steve Machett.
News of the new commentary team was quickly followed with a congratulatory tweet from American race legend Mario Andretti. Diffey's big day was topped off with dinner in Austin, Texas, with fellow Aussie Mark Webber.
“This has been a hard secret to keep inside,” Diffey tweeted after the news was out.
Back in Australia, his mate and former work colleague, Ten motor sports presenter Greg Rust, said he was thrilled and proud that Diffey had won the most desirable motor sporting gig in US television.
“Not many Australians have cracked network TV in the States – it's an awesome opportunity for Leigh,” said Rust.
Another Ten commentator, former motorcycle star Daryl Beattie, added his congratulations. “Leigh brings great enthusiasm and knowledge to motor sporting telecasts. No-one works harder. He deserves this break.”
Last month, NBC Sports Group announced it will televise all F1 races, as well as qualifying, practice sessions, studio shows and re-airs that amount to more than 100 hours of programming annually.
Diffey, already well known on that side of the Pacific after constant exposure on Speed, is set to become an even bigger, more recognisable name.
“We are privileged to add not one, not two, but three experienced and respected voices to our Formula One coverage,” said Sam Flood, Executive Producer, NBC Sports and NBC Sports Network.
“Leigh, David and Steve are all gifted storytellers, who live and breathe F1. They will educate viewers with their unique perspectives, which have been formed from long-time careers spent either behind the wheel, in the pits or in the booth.”