Netflix’s auto racing documentary series, “Drive to Survive”, returns to the streaming platform for its seventh season, offering an unprecedented behind-the-scenes look at the 2024 Formula 1 season. The first two episodes, ‘Business as Usual’ and ‘Frenemies’, set the tone for the season, bringing to the fore dramatic moments from the world of Formula 1.
The primary focus of episode one centers around the noteworthy off-track developments that marked the beginning of the 2024 campaign, including Lewis Hamilton’s monumental switch to Ferrari and the allegations of unethical conduct against Red Bull Team Principal, Christian Horner.
The episode commences by reflecting on Red Bull’s triumphant 2023 season before swiftly moving to a preview of the thrilling moments the 2024 season has in store. The episode’s highlight reel serves not only as a reminder of the excitement-filled 2024 season but also underscores the vast amount of content Netflix will need to cover.
An engaging segment of the episode sheds light on the reactions from key figures, including Hamilton, Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff, Ferrari Team Principal Fred Vasseur, and the displaced Carlos Sainz, following Hamilton’s move to Ferrari. While this might not reveal new insights for seasoned fans, it provides an enlightening account of the events for newcomers to the series.
The episode further showcases a captivating conversation between Sainz and Hamilton during a Bahrain GP press conference, providing both new and existing fans with a unique behind-the-scenes perspective. The gathering of the 20 drivers for their group photo in Bahrain further offers viewers a sneak peek into candid conversations among these racing stars.
The episode concludes with the dismissal of the allegations against Horner, a significant development that’s likely to reignite criticism against the Red Bull boss. Horner’s ordeal takes center stage in the episode as the media scrutiny follows him relentlessly, casting a shadow over the RB20 launch, pre-season testing, and the Bahrain Grand Prix.
In a riveting turn of events, the episode also documents Sainz’s remarkable recovery from appendicitis in Saudi Arabia, which culminated in his triumphant win in Australia. This narrative arc underlines how the 2024 season offered a wealth of compelling content for “Drive to Survive”.
The second episode, however, does not match the drama and intensity of the first. Titled ‘Frenemies’, the episode chronicles the 2024 rivalry between Max Verstappen and Lando Norris. It paints McLaren as a contender from the outset, although the real competition did not heat up until the Miami Grand Prix, where Norris clinched his first win.
Despite its lack of high-octane drama, episode two offers an engaging enough narrative for newcomers to the sport, showcasing how the championship unfolded. That said, the first episode truly encapsulates the essence of “Drive to Survive”, offering something to captivate every viewer.
In conclusion, Netflix’s “Drive to Survive” season seven starts on a high note, promising an exhilarating journey through the highs and lows of the 2024 Formula 1 season.
