Martin Brundle had a wholesome conversation with Paolo Banchero on the Miami Grand Prix grid walk after thinking he was Patrick Mahomes last year.
His Sky Sports grid walk at the 2022 edition of the race remains one of his most memorable. Among, many eye-catching elements was the moment he approached a man who he thought was NFL star Mahomes – but he was wrong.
Instead, he was actually speaking with NBA hotshot Banchero, and only figured it out halfway through the conversation. "It's not Patrick – that's why he ignored me," said Brundle with perfect comedic timing when he eventually realised his error.
Fans were waiting to see what his grid walk would hold on this occasion, and were not disappointed when the cameras cut to Brundle standing next to Banchero again. This time, Brundle knew exactly who he was talking to and referenced the gaffe as he began speaking to the basketballer.
"I've found Paolo Banchero. I found him last year I just didn't get the name right in the beginning<" he said, before turning to his interviewee and adding: "What a year you've had since you made me infamous!"
Banchero replied in good humour: "It's been a hell of a year and I'm honoured that you know my name now man. You're great at what you do.
"This is a rush being here, everyone looking over and all the celebrities walking the track. This build up for the race is exciting. I'm cheering for my guy Lewis, team Mercedes, man."
Formula 1 fans on social media enjoyed the reunion. "At least he knew who he was this time," wrote one while another said: "Martin Brundle talking to Paolo Banchero on the grid is a perfect full circle moment."
A third joked: "Martin Brundle has become self-aware with the Paolo Banchero bit." And a fourth wrote: "I need Brundle to actual meet Patrick Mahomes and call him Paolo Banchero." Kansas City Chief quarterback Mahomes is in Miami for the race, but did not feature in Brundle's grid walk.
