Netflix Camera Operator in the FIA Press Conference. On November 2, 2023, the Brazilian Grand Prix, part of the Formula 1 World Championship, took place in Sao Paulo, Brazil during the Preparation Day.
During the final day of pre-season testing for Formula 1 in Bahrain last Friday, Netflix released the latest installment of its popular docuseries, ‘Drive to Survive.’ Season Six, which consisted of 10 episodes, was made available on February 23. The author of this review watched all the episodes in one sitting.
So, did the show live up to the hype, or did Netflix take a more subtle approach? The answer lies somewhere in between.
Critics of ‘Drive to Survive’ often criticize the show for its use of dramatized narratives in order to captivate the audience, as well as the simplistic nature of Will Buxton’s narration, a well-known Formula 1 reporter. However, it is important to consider these aspects in their true context before forming an opinion. The show is designed to engage and connect with new fans, a method that has proven successful and has helped Formula 1 gain popularity in the United States and worldwide. This doesn’t mean that long-time fans can’t enjoy the series as well. In fact, Season Six offers something for everyone.
To be honest, I don’t remember much from Season Five of ‘Drive to Survive,’ which speaks volumes about how Netflix portrayed a one-sided title fight. Season Four, in my opinion, failed to capture the true drama of the 2021 season. Therefore, I was concerned about what Season Six had in store, especially after witnessing the most one-sided title fight in Formula 1 history.
WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD
However, Netflix and Box to Box Films managed to handle Red Bull’s dominance in 2023 quite well, even though they chose to largely ignore it. Max Verstappen, who has always been critical of pandering to Netflix, is noticeably absent from most of the 10 episodes. His presence is mainly used to provide context to the struggles his rivals faced throughout 2023. Instead, the focus is on the chasing pack and the off-track headlines. While results and the pursuit of victory remain important, it feels like Netflix was more interested in capturing the reactions of drivers and teams away from the track, rather than focusing on the on-track action.
Before I continue, there was one moment at the end of the series that struck me as odd. It involved the handling of Guenther Steiner’s departure from Haas, which had been widely discussed. Steiner has always been an entertaining and charismatic figure for Netflix, and he is given the final interview in the famous DTS interview room. Behind the camera, a producer thanks Steiner and expresses their genuine pleasure in talking with him. Steiner replies, “You’re welcome. And you know, if I didn’t like it, I wouldn’t speak.”
The screen then cuts to black, there is silence, and white text appears, stating: GUENTHER’S CONTRACT WAS NOT RENEWED FOR 2024
The credits then roll.
This moment gave the impression that the production was paying tribute to Steiner’s departure, as if it were a significant loss. However, Steiner is not dead, he has simply been replaced at his team. Perhaps Steiner’s exit from Haas marks the end of an era for future seasons of ‘Drive to Survive’? Based on Season Six, the show can continue successfully without him, thanks to the refreshing presence of Williams Team Principal James Vowles and the insights provided by Claire Williams, one of his predecessors, as a new addition to the series.
Moving on, Season Six of ‘Drive to Survive’ offers moments of pure drama and emotion, particularly towards the end of the series. In Episode 9, titled ‘Three’s a Crowd,’ viewers witness Liam Lawson grappling with the news that he won’t have an F1 race seat in 2024, despite beating Yuki Tsunoda in front of the Japanese driver’s home fans. The behind-the-scenes shots capture Lawson’s heavy disappointment, and his interviews in front of the camera are filled with raw emotion. “It’s tough knowing that I don’t get the seat even though I’ve beaten the guy who’s getting a seat,” Lawson says in the interview room. He adds, “I don’t know how to ****ing answer that, honestly. Because it’s meant to be me, so…” It’s a raw display of emotion that took me by surprise, and it was one of the standout moments of the series, highlighting the challenges faced by the former AlphaTauri team when deciding their 2024 driver lineup.
In the final episode, titled ‘Red or Black,’ the press conference scenes that follow Carlos Sainz’s drain incident in Las Vegas are depicted in all their dramatic glory. Tom Clarkson, in a desperate attempt, tries to engage an agitated Fred Vasseur with probing questions. It is worth noting that Vasseur’s unique blend of chaotic humor and confidence is a delight to watch whenever he appears on screen.
Given the absence of a title fight, certain storylines unfold across multiple episodes. While this may be seen as a drawback, the narratives themselves are sufficiently captivating to warrant extended coverage. Episode two, ‘Fall From Grace,’ chronicles the emergence of Netflix favorite Daniel Ricciardo amidst Nyck de Vries’ struggles. To ensure that Ricciardo’s presence is not overshadowed, de Vries is absent from subsequent episodes. Ricciardo remains a constant presence in front of the cameras, taking on a prominent role in episode nine as he recovers from a broken hand alongside Lawson.
The Alpine roller coaster season also unfolds over several episodes. In episode five, titled ‘Civil Way,’ former Team Principal Otmar Szafnauer battles to maintain harmony between his drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly. However, in episode seven, ‘C’est la Vie,’ Szafnauer is replaced by Bruno Famin. The latter episode is particularly intriguing as the events unfold, leading to Szafnauer’s removal during the Belgian Grand Prix weekend.
Moreover, viewing the episodes in the context of the offseason adds an extra layer of interest. Episode six, ‘Leap of Faith,’ delves into Mercedes’ ongoing struggles as Lewis Hamilton contemplates whether to extend his contract with the team. Meanwhile, rumors about a potential move to Ferrari swirl in the background. Observing the conversations between Toto Wolff and Hamilton, knowing that the seven-time champion has decided to join Ferrari in 2025, will undoubtedly spark speculation about whether the seeds of his departure were sown last summer.
“You can spend another two decades, three decades here. I cannot,” jokes Hamilton. Wolff responds, “Well, who says that?” Given Hamilton’s desire to remain at Mercedes as an ambassador after his racing career and reportedly being rejected, Wolff’s reply is significant. Hamilton continues, “These years are valuable to me, I’m uncertain.”
“Lewis, you are more than just a race driver,” replies Wolff. “More than the seven-time World Champion. You are one of the individuals who propel this team forward.” A moment of silence follows between the two.
It is during these instances that the new season of DTS stands out, the moments where fans can witness conversations that were previously inaccessible. The mistakes in radio communication, improper utilization of race footage, and fabricated moments will undoubtedly be present for observant viewers to identify and share on social media. However, if one looks beyond that, this is an improved version of a successful format that caters to both new and long-time fans.
Where else can you revel in the irony of Wolff’s statement towards the climax of episode six? “The idea of Lewis at Ferrari, wearing a red overall, wouldn’t suit him.”
Season Seven of DTS is already shaping up…