In 2019, Netflix released the first season of "Formula 1: Drive to Survive." Since then, F1's popularity in the U.S. has increased, resulting in three grand prix in the country.
The growing American interest in motorsports could be traced to the involvement of the American Haas F1 team and Williams Racing's driver Logan Sargeant. Moreover, several digital streaming services have reached the country, from ESPN+ to F1 TV.
The increasing appeal of the sport also stemmed from F1's continuous presence on various social media platforms, which helps in attracting younger fans.
Regardless, "Formula 1: Drive to Survive" has become a good platform to convert viewers into fans in a span of six seasons. Here are some of the best moments of the series from each season:
Daniel Ricciardo Moves to Renault
The first episode of the series introduced us to Red Bull driver Daniel Ricciardo. The Aussie had a good run with the team and considered them his home.
Despite Red Bull's optimism about Ricciardo's contract, the driver officially ended his term with them at the end of the season. The driver made a huge announcement about his transfer to Renault.
Williams Racing Remains Hopeful
Williams used to be one of the most powerful race teams alongside Ferrari. During the second season, the series highlighted the numerous challenges that the team faced.
The once influential team on the grid experienced challenges in the internal dynamics, sponsorship and financial difficulties. Williams' then-team principal, Claire Williams, had to face significant pressure to keep the team from falling to last place.
Romain Grosjean's Crash
Haas F1 Team driver Romain Grosjean had a fireball crash during the 2020 Bahrain Grand Prix. A few minutes into the race, the Haas car went out of control, crashed and burst into flames.
The series documented the immediate response team that F1 implements every race. Grosjean miraculously emerged from the fireball, suffering only minor burns to his hands. This incident gave the audience an insight into the dangers of F1 racing.
Red Bull Versus Mercedes
The fourth season of the series focused on the intense rivalry between the seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull's rising star Max Verstappen. The 2021 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix became the most gut-wrenching season for both teams.
Although Mercedes kept its constructor's championship streak, the 2021 season saw the end of Hamilton's dominance in the grid. This season also started Red Bull's dominance with Verstappen, who would become the three-time world champion.
McLaren Versus Alpine
Before McLaren welcomed Oscar Piastri as their driver, the rookie was part of Alpine's program. With Ricciardo ending his stint with the papaya team, a seat was up for grabs. Likewise, Alpine also suffered from the transfer of veteran Fernando Alonso.
Piastri refused to join Alpine as their driver and eventually joined McLaren. This added fuel to the mid-field fight between the two teams. Alpine sealed the season in fourth place, while McLaren lagged in fifth place.
Forza Ferrari
During the 2023 season, Ferrari welcomed its new team principal Frederic Vasseur. The passionate Tifosi put a lot of pressure on his back as the team tried to bring back the glory days of the team.
Despite their efforts, the team's cars proved to be unlucky for them. Fortunately, driver Carlos Sainz Jr. ended Red Bull's unbeatable winning streak during the Singapore Grand Prix.
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