In what was a much-awaited decision, Netflix today announced that F1: Drive to Survive would be returning to the OTT platform for the second season in 2020. The smash-hit series opened up a host of new opportunities for Formula One in terms of branding and fan engagement, and one can expect the second season to be bigger and better than the first one.
What will the second season focus on?
After the huge success of the first season, all the 10 constructors will be a part of the second season. It must be noted that even Ferrari and Mercedes, who declined to feature in the first season have ceded to be featured in this one.
The second season will feature action right from the paddock, and give the viewer the real highs and lows of the racers and their teams. It will follow in great detail the practice and preparation that precedes the racing weekend. Of course, the show will be centering its content on the current racing season that is the 2019 FIA Formula One Championship, which Mercedes is currently running away with.
As such, it will be all the more interesting to catch the reaction of the likes of Ferrari and Red Bull, who are trying to catch up with the Silver Arrow. Moreover, the simmering rivalry between Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc, Sebastian Vettel’s off-form and the Valtteri Bottas versus Lewis Hamilton rivalry will provide for some really interesting viewing.
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Why was Drive to Survive such a hit?
Drive to Survive was an epic hit because of its unique, behind-the-scenes content that touched a nerve with all those who watched it. Haas team boss Guenther Steiner was undoubtedly the star of season one, with his choice expletives and cold war with Red Bull boss Christian Horner undoubtedly being the central theme of attraction to most viewers.
Season two will be a much more intense affair, with more in-depth coverage of the racers, bosses, crews, and fans. As the venues and rankings change, so will the drama and tension, thus making it a complete package. Things will be rawer, more intense and more direct this season, as compared to the previous one. Emotions will be higher as well, as this season had the 1000th official Formula One race as well as marked the 25th death anniversary of racing legend Ayrton Senna.
Media speak…
“We are thrilled to once again be working with Netflix on the second series of Drive to Survive,” said Ian Holmes, Director of Media Rights at Formula 1.
“It is a truly unique series which allows fans to see the unseen side of F1, showcasing the personalities and emotions each team and driver goes through, both on and off the grid.
“Drive to Survive has enabled us to reach an entirely new fan base globally and partnering with Netflix for a second season ensures we are continuing to put fans at the heart of what we do and make the sport more open and accessible to all.”
Bring. It. On!
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