Jimmy Fallon teases Martin Brundle after Miami grid walk microphone bite

Jimmy Fallon, host of The Tonight Show, made a memorable first F1 appearance at the Miami Grand Prix by biting Martin Brundle's microphone during the pre-race grid walk. The awkward moment went viral, leading Fallon to later quip on his show that Brundle's microphone "tastes delicious." Meanwhile, Sky F1 confirmed a long-term broadcast rights extension through 2034.

Why it matters:

The incident highlights the growing crossover between F1 and mainstream entertainment in the US, as the sport attracts celebrities and new audiences. It also underscores Sky's continued commitment to F1 broadcasting, securing coverage for the next decade and supporting the sport's global growth.

The details:

• Fallon bit the foam cover (commonly called a muff or sock) attached to Brundle's Sky F1 microphone during the Miami GP grid walk.
• Brundle responded on social media: "In 30 years of broadcasting I've never wondered what a branded microphone sock tastes like. There's some very funny people around."
• On his show, Fallon described the grid experience and directly addressed Brundle: "Martin Brundle, by the way… your microphone tastes delicious!"
• Sky F1 announced it will retain live F1 broadcast rights in the UK and Ireland until 2034, and in Italy until 2032, under a multi-year extension.
• Highlights of each race and live coverage of the British Grand Prix will remain free-to-air; the current highlights deal with Channel 4 runs until the end of 2026.

What's next:

The contract extension ensures Sky's role in F1’s growth, with CEO Dana Strong citing rising stars like Kimi Antonelli. Fallon's viral moment could further boost US interest in the sport as celebrities increasingly engage with F1.