David Croft, the well-known Formula One commentator, is famous for his opening phrase “Lights out, and away we go!” that sets the tone for every F1 race.
This catchphrase has become synonymous with the start of each Grand Prix, and fans around the world eagerly wait for it to be heard.
However, he has himself admitted that the catchphrase is not originally his and rather belonged to BBC’s Ben Edwards.
However, it is fair to say that it is only under Croft that the phrase has achieved such widespread approval and appreciation.
Why did David Croft start to use this catchphrase?
Before joining F1 as a commentator, Croft worked for BBC Radio 5 Live, where he hosted a variety of shows, including the station’s Formula One coverage.
It was during one of these shows that Croft used the phrase “Lights out, and away we go!” for the first time. The show was a live broadcast of the 2006 Australian Grand Prix, and as the lights went out to signal the start of the race, Croft exclaimed his now-famous phrase.
The phrase quickly caught on with listeners, and Croft continued to use it throughout the rest of the season.
When Croft moved to television commentary for Sky Sports F1, he brought his famous catchphrase with him. The phrase quickly became synonymous with Croft’s style of commentary and added to the excitement of the start of every F1 race.
Why did people have a problem with this catchphrase?
However, the phrase wasn’t an instant hit with everyone. Some viewers found it too gimmicky and detracted from the serious nature of the sport.
Despite this initial criticism, Croft continued to use the phrase, and it eventually became an integral part of his commentary.
Over the years, the phrase has become one of the most recognizable and iconic parts of Formula One, and it’s hard to imagine a race without it.
The phrase perfectly captures the excitement and drama of the sport, and it has helped to enhance the viewing experience for millions of fans around the world.
David Croft’s “Lights out, and away we go!” phrase is a phrase originally used by his colleague at BBC, but it has become synonymous with the start of all F1 races now.