Mark Blundell….how We Miss You.

When it was suggested to me that I should write an article about either the best or worst sports commentators I know of, there was only one choice.  The great Mark Blundell (United Kingdom ITV1 Formula One coverage).

What an absolute relief it was to hear that David Coulthard would replace Mark Blundell when the Formula One coverage switched from ITV1 to BBC1.  DC is well spoken, intelligent and a good presenter, but can he come up with gems like "And here we see a small fire what occurs inside the Sauber."  Now I’m a Londoner, but I can talk properly, surly ITV heard Blundell open his mouth and gave him some sort of speech lessons? 

The answer to that question is most likely…no.  I think Blundell was a very average F1 driver and he simply died on his arse when it came to analysing races!  Would you like another quote? Of course you would…"...a fantastic performance and a team on the incline. Toyota are under enormous pressure, they've really been having their collars felt by Japan." Genius. 

I must admit my first choice of ITV presenter to pan was the great James Allen. Annoying as he was though I kind of feel sorry for him.  He may have said some very silly things and been totally besotted with Lewis Hamilton and Micheal Schumaker, but I do feel he was a genuine Formula One fanatic.  

Commentators and drivers often spoke of Allen’s commitment to the sport and he would regularly stand by the side of the track taking copious notes. I think ITV were excusable in their selection of Allen, and come on lets face it, people only listen to the commentary for Martin Brundel.

I do not understand though why they stuck with Blundell for so long! Before I continue…one more quote…"He should be faster than what he really is." Indeed Mark.

There are thousands of ex-Formula one drivers out there who could string sentences together better than Blundell, why were they neglected in favour of a bloke what can’t talk proper? I simply can’t answer that question for you.  

All I can say is thank the TV lord that the brilliant DC was chosen to give us information that is useful and interesting. Having James Allen in the commentary box was annoying, but to then be faced with analysis from Blundell nearly finished me. As for 2009, well Jonathan Legard isn’t perfect, but I sure as hell listen when DC talks the show out.        

I’d like to finish with a classic quote made about my F1 hero and current World Championship leader…take it away Mark…"I think Jenson Button needs to put in a strong performance and put some points in the bag, he's got nothing on the table as we speak."