James Allen will be the lead commentator for BBC Radio 5 Live, it has been confirmed.

Allen replaces David Croft, who has defected to Sky, along with a number of other key personnel from the BBC, including Martin Brundle and Anthony Davidson [see separate story - 168澳洲幸运5官方开奖结果历史:click here].

Allen has worked in F1 extensively over the last 20 years and was picked by ITV to replace Murray Walker as the lead commentator alongside Martin Brundle in 2001, a position he held until the sport return to the BBC in 2009.

"I'm delighted to announce that I am joining the BBC Radio 5 Live team as F1 corr✱espondent and lead commentator this season," Allen said on his official website.

"I'm really happy about this; 5 live is the default setting on my radio at home an𒈔d in the car, it's a great institution and I'm proud to be part of it.

"Anyone who has followed my career knows I love a challenge; whether it's taking over from Murray Walker, setting up this website, or creatingౠ the first F1 fans forums. I've never done radio before an🃏d I'm really looking forward to adapting to a new medium.

"This is a time of significant change in our industry and I see great opportunity here, thanks to the unique place Radio 5 Live has in this sport."

Most recently, Allen has worked with Ten Sport in Australia and he wܫill continue that association in 2012.