Netflix's popular documentary series, Drive to Survive, is back for its seventh season, chronicling the high-octane world of Formula One during the 2024 racing season. This season has already garnered attention for its exploration of significant personal dramas, corporate maneuvering, and the subsequent ripple effects of major driver changes, promising to keep viewers enthralled.
One of the season's most shocking developments is the move of legendary driver Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes to Ferrari. This transition set off what can only be described as the most chaotic driver market shift, affecting numerous personalities across teams. Carlos Sainz was left seeking new opportunities after losing his seat to Hamilton, leading to many tense moments captured by the show's creators. "Lewis’ decision created this cascade of driver moves and the most nuts silly season of all time, so we tell the story through multiple characters," said Tom Rogers, co-executive producer of the series.
Toto Wolff, Mercedes' team principal, initially reacted to Hamilton’s shocking announcement with disbelief. "It’s such a big change for the entire team," he is noted to have expressed, showing mixed emotions about his driver's departure. After much deliberation, Wolff decided to bring 18-year-old Kimi Antonelli, who has been part of the long-term developmental plans at Mercedes, to fill Hamilton's seat alongside George Russell. This decision shifts the dynamics within the team as they now employ two drivers who are fiercely competitive. James Gay-Rees, the executive producer, commented, "He’s such a sweet kid and he’s clearly very talented; it’s evidently been quite the project for Toto to bring him up," praising Antonelli's potential as both exciting and fitting for the team's vision.
The seventh season also focuses on the emotional and relatable aspects of the drivers' journeys. Episode 4, aptly titled 'Carlos Signs', follows Sainz as he grapples with the repercussions of losing his seat at Ferrari and searches for new chances to advance his career at another prestigious team, Williams. Rogers remarked, "That story is really relatable for how he lost a job, got another and made the career move to Williams. I think that's where Drive to Survive works best, if it can humanise these stories and make them identifiable to everyone watching." The human element adds depth and offers fans insight beyond what they might see on the racetrack.
Additionally, the creators have ingeniously captured moments from the Singapore Grand Prix through subjective lenses. They provided drivers with iPhones to film their own experiences, resulting in genuine vignettes like Charles Leclerc playfully playing the piano and candid reflections from Lando Norris about his media apprehension. Leclerc shares his own personal narrative, capturing his home life as he attempts to conquer Monaco—his home race—after never having won it previously, which adds yet another layer of fascination for fans.
There are substantive tales of rivalry and tension elsewhere too, particularly within Red Bull Racing. Team principal Christian Horner faces significant pressure following Sergio Perez's underwhelming performance throughout the season. The review showcases Horner's contemplation of lineup changes, eventually welcoming the hotheaded Liam Lawson, who has gained attention for his assertiveness on the track. Lawson's controversial performance, which included him driving Perez off the track, stirs up concerns of team dynamics. Drive to Survive expertly navigates through this corporate drama alongside the personal layers of heartbreak, aspiration, and vindication.
The overarching theme of this season aligns perfectly with the authenticity and intensity of Formula One itself. Previous seasons, particularly Season 6, had garnered criticism for feeling forced, with the show's glossy veneer undermining its essence. But Season 7 has revitalized the series' appeal, showcasing remarkable storytelling through the passionate yet volatile lives of its stars.
Overall, Drive to Survive Season 7 provides fans with fresh perspectives on their favorite athletes, driven by genuine human experiences and the unpredictable nature of Formula One racing. Whether it's the intense competition, the personal growth stories, or the ever-evolving backstories of alliances and rivalries, this season promises fans what they've come to love: speed, scandal, and remarkable storytelling.