F1 and Netflix stand by their controversial series 'Drive to Survive'.

      "I don't want fabricated scripts and made-up nonsense."

       By GMM

       18 March 2025 - 07:52

      Formula 1 and the producers of Netflix's 'Drive to Survive' have stood up for the series in the face of harsh criticism from prominent drivers like Lando Norris and Max Verstappen.

      Verstappen has consistently expressed his disdain for the over-the-top, Hollywood-style production, even opting out of participating in certain seasons.

      One scene from the latest installment depicted the four-time world champion appearing dismayed by Lando Norris' first win in Miami; however, a closer look revealed that Verstappen was wearing the cap he only donned at Zandvoort the previous year.

      Netflix called it an "unintentional mistake."

      "Apparently, I was very sad after Miami," Verstappen commented. "I had the best time ever that Sunday night, so I don’t understand why I was upset."

      McLaren's Norris accused Netflix of essentially "lying" about the realities of what happens behind the scenes in Formula 1.

      "I don’t think you can misrepresent someone when it’s not the truth," he stated. "That distinction needs to be made clear.

      "I don’t want fabricated scripts and nonsensical content, which is present."

      Even some fans expressed their dissatisfaction with how producers portrayed George Russell's apparent panic attack following a scorching race in Singapore and how his qualifications as a top driver were constantly questioned.

      "There’s always a desire for the best storyline," remarked the Mercedes driver, "and that’s just the nature of these entertainment programs."

      A representative for Drive to Survive defended their methodology, acknowledging their goal is to "broaden F1's appeal."

      Consequently, "we present these stories in an entertaining and engaging manner, which has significantly attracted new fans to the sport—a legacy we take great pride in.

      "The series is produced under significant time constraints, and occasionally mistakes do occur."

      An official from Formula 1 also robustly supported the Netflix series.

      "We should highlight the positive influence of the series and refrain from criticizing something that has been advantageous for the entire sport," the spokesperson asserted.