McLaren driver Lando Norris has taken the lead in paying tribute to Steve Rider, the former ITV Formula 1 presenter, after Rider announced his retirement on Sunday. The heartfelt homage highlights Norris’s respect for Rider’s contribution to motorsport broadcasting over many years.
Steve Rider was ITV’s face for Formula 1 racing between 2006 and 2008, before the broadcast rights moved to the BBC in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Beyond F1, Rider continued to present ITV’s coverage of the British Touring Car Championship (BTCC), remaining a significant figure in motorsport media throughout his career.
Steve Rider’s Career and Final Broadcast at Oulton Park
Rider, who publicly revealed his prostate cancer diagnosis in 2023, signed off from his presenting duties during the BTCC race weekend at Oulton Park. The event featured a tribute video montage including various notable figures from the racing world, with Lando Norris among those reflecting on Rider’s legacy. Norris’s connection to the BTCC extends back to 2014, when he competed in its support series, the Ginetta Junior Championship, adding personal weight to his tribute.
Messages from Lando Norris and Peers on Rider’s Retirement
In a video message, Norris expressed admiration for Rider’s illustrious broadcasting career:
“It’s been a pleasure to work with someone so iconic, so legendary, and I wish you all the very, very best.”
—Lando Norris, McLaren Driver
Norris recalled watching Rider on television during his childhood and valued the opportunity to collaborate with him across his racing journey, from karting through to Formula 1.
Oscar Piastri, Norris’s McLaren teammate and current F1 2025 championship leader, who also worked with Rider during his 2017 British F4 season, shared his good wishes:
“Enjoy retirement, all the best and enjoy whatever life holds.”
—Oscar Piastri, F1 Driver
Jenson Button, 2009 World Champion and Sky F1 pundit, spoke about Rider’s presence throughout his racing career:
“Mate, it’s been an honour and I hope you have an amazing retirement. You deserve it, buddy.”
—Jenson Button, F1 World Champion
Damon Hill, 1996 World Champion and BBC Radio 5 Live pundit, praised Rider’s commentary style and persona:
“What a wonderful career and I wish you all the best in your retirement.”
—Damon Hill, F1 World Champion
Additional Tributes from F1 Legends and Colleagues
Sir Jackie Stewart, three-time World Champion, sent his regards to Rider and expressed hope for future appearances:
“In the meantime, happy retirement.” —Sir Jackie Stewart, F1 World Champion
Nigel Mansell, 1992 World Champion, celebrated Rider’s professionalism and wished him well:
“I hope you have a great time.”
—Nigel Mansell, F1 World Champion
David Coulthard, former driver for Williams, McLaren, and Red Bull, looked forward to spending time with Rider beyond broadcasting:
“I wish you a wonderful retirement and hope to have the opportunity to have a beer with you in the future. All the best.”
—David Coulthard, Former F1 Driver
Recognizing Steve Rider’s Impact on Motorsport Broadcasting
Steve Rider’s retirement marks the end of an era for British motorsport broadcasting, where his distinctive style and decades of engagement earned him widespread respect. His career bridged generations of racing fans and drivers alike, including promising talents such as Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri. The appreciation expressed by multiple world champions and key figures underscores Rider’s lasting influence on the sport’s media landscape.
As Rider steps away from regular presenting duties, the racing community is left reflecting on his legacy and contributions. His connection with both grassroots levels of racing and high-profile championships resonates deeply across the sport, suggesting that Rider’s impact will remain significant, whether through occasional appearances or the memorable moments he helped create.