Exploring the F1 Drama of Season 7 with Netflix’s ‘Drive to Survive’

Rain poured down, cooling the typically hot conditions of the Singapore Grand Prix weekend last September as captured in episode seven of the new season of Drive to Survive. Instead of a traditional camera, George Russell was handed a phone by Netflix to film behind the scenes. Alongside Charles Leclerc, Pierre Gasly, Alex Albon, and Lando Norris, the drivers provided glimpses of their personal lives, adding a new layer of depth to the show.

The latest season of Drive to Survive, set to release on March 7, promises to break away from the traditional format, aiming to keep audiences engaged with fresh perspectives and storytelling. Executive producer Tom Hutchings emphasized the need to evolve the show’s format to offer viewers something new every year.

Despite facing criticism over the years, Drive to Survive has been credited with boosting F1’s popularity in the United States. The series goes behind the scenes of this glamorous sport, showcasing the drama, emotion, and real stakes that make it compelling. Season 7 aims to capture multi-team battles while continuing to innovate in storytelling.

The idea for a behind-the-scenes F1 show emerged after Liberty Media’s takeover in 2017. The production team faced the challenge of convincing teams and drivers to buy into the vision, with initial skepticism from Ferrari and Mercedes. However, as more teams participated, the show gained momentum, offering unprecedented access to the inner workings of the sport.

From exclusive access to Ferrari’s garage at the Las Vegas Grand Prix to intimate home shoots, the production crew of Drive to Survive follows every moment of the F1 season. With limited crew members, the team juggles multiple responsibilities, striving to capture the essence of each race weekend. The show’s success lies in its storytelling, transforming F1 into a compelling soap opera that keeps viewers coming back for more.

As Season 7 gears up for its release, Drive to Survive continues to push boundaries and offer fans a new perspective on the world of Formula One. With a focus on real drama, emotion, and authentic storytelling, the show promises an exciting and engaging look into the heart of F1.