In a shocking turn of events, Formula 1 driver Sergio Perez has been revealed to be ‘furious’ with journalist Will Buxton after a controversial ‘pay driver’ segment on the popular series Drive to Survive. The explosive revelation came to light when Buxton recalled a heated confrontation with Perez over the alleged comment.
The incident dates back to the first season of Drive to Survive, which aired in 2019 and covered the 2018 Formula 1 season. Buxton, a former F1 presenter turned IndyCar commentator, clarified that he never directly referred to Perez as a ‘pay driver’ but rather provided an explanation of the term, which was later misinterpreted through editing.
Despite clarifying the situation over coffee with Perez, tensions ran high as the driver felt misrepresented in the hit Netflix show. The term ‘pay driver’ is often used in F1 to describe a driver who secures a seat through financial backing rather than pure talent.
Perez, who joined Red Bull in 2021 and later departed at the end of the 2024 season, found himself embroiled in the controversy during his time with Force India/Racing Point Force India. However, the Mexican driver might be eyeing a comeback to the series, with rumors linking him to the new Cadillac team set to debut in F1 in 2026.
The Drive to Survive series has been instrumental in boosting Formula 1’s global appeal, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the intense world of motorsport. With the latest season, the seventh installment, released in 2025, the show continues to captivate audiences with its gripping narratives and dramatic storylines.
As the saga between Perez and Buxton unfolds, fans are left eagerly anticipating the upcoming season of Drive to Survive, wondering what other explosive revelations and confrontations lie in store for their favorite drivers.
