Chris McCarthy has explained why he unexpectedly disappeared from F1TV’s Monaco coverage over the weekend, revealing he suffered an epileptic seizure shortly before Saturday’s Formula 2 Sprint race.
McCarthy, F1TV’s lead commentator across both Formula 2 and Formula 3, had been in position as normal through Thursday practice sessions and Friday qualifying in the Principality. But when F2 rolled out for Saturday’s track action, his voice wasn’t there — and it wasn’t a planned rotation.
“Thanks to everyone for all the messages,” McCarthy wrote on X. “Unfortunately I was not able to commentate on F2 as I suffered an epileptic seizure before the race. Glad to say I’m all okay & heading back from the hospital to rest up for the weekend.
“Thanks to Alice and Alex for taking over.”
McCarthy was taken to hospital and later released the same day, but confirmed a few hours on that he wouldn’t return to the microphone on Sunday either.
“Incredibly grateful to everyone for the messages of support, it really means a huge amount,” he added. “Will be resting up tomorrow to enjoy the racing from home.
“Should be back again soon.”
The immediate on-air gap was filled by Alex Brundle and former W Series racer Alice Powell, who stepped in to lead the junior-category commentary. In the world of live broadcasting — especially at Monaco, where the margins are as tight in the comms box as they are on track — it was a reminder of how quickly a weekend’s routines can be upended.
Brundle later posted his own message of support. “Mate, we were concerned for you,” he wrote. “Glad you are feeling a little better, rest up and we’ll see you for the next one.”
Karun Chandhok also checked in publicly, posting: “Glad to hear you’re ok Chris! Get well soon.”
McCarthy’s role on F1TV has made him a familiar voice for viewers who follow the ladder as closely as the main event, particularly with Monaco hosting Formula 3’s second round of the season and Formula 2 running its fourth. In a paddock that can sometimes treat the junior formulas as background noise, the F1TV presentation has leaned heavily on continuity — and McCarthy has been central to that.
For now, the priority is straightforward: recovery and rest. McCarthy says he’s “all okay” and expects to be back “soon”, but he’ll be watching the rest of the weekend’s racing from home.
