Grapevine: Walker poised for BBC comeback

Legendary commentator Murray Walker could make a return to the microphone for the BBC at this year's European Grand Prix, autosport.com has learned

BBC Radio 5 Live's F1 commentator David Croft is skipping the Nurburgring race in July so he can be at the birth of his first child - which is due shortly before the race.

The BBC is looking for a high-profile replacement to maintain the standards of their F1 coverage and sources have suggested that they are on the verge of securing Walker's services.

Walker last did a live Formula One broadcast for BBC television at the 1996 Japanese Grand Prix - where Damon Hill won the world championship.

He subsequently moved to ITV the following year to join their F1 coverage before retiring from full-time work in 2001. He has since made guest appearances for the BBC, Honda and Channel 10 in Australia.

Croft would not confirm the BBC's plans for his replacement but said that he would be genuinely excited if it was Walker.

"I have no idea if the story is true, but wouldn't it be fabulous to hear Murray Walker on the BBC again?" he told autosport.com.

"I'm having my first child and nothing will stop me being at the birth."