Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen has declared he is ready to end his boycott of Netflix ’s successful docu-series Drive to Survive.
The Dutchman has criticised the show, which became a phenomenon and helped the sport break new ground in international markets like the United States, for the way protagonists were portrayed and rivalries fabricated. As a result, Verstappen refused to take part in interviews for the fourth season of the show, which was released in March.
His absence was particularly felt, as the show followed Verstappen’s explosive, intense and controversial battle with Lewis Hamilton for the 2021 world title. The Red Bull star ultimately emerged triumphant over the seven-time champion, securing the title on the last lap of the final race of the season in Abu Dhabi.
In March when the new series was released, Verstappen insisted his stance was unlikely to change. However, Netflix and Formula 1 confirmed two more seasons in May - and Verstappen now wants to be more involved in production
“I just sat together with them and I explained how I thought about it and what I thought went wrong in the past and it was actually a very good, quick little chat and we'll try to improve from there,” Verstappen told reporters at the British Grand Prix. “That's all I'm asking for.
“That's it just more realistic, at least from my side. I cannot control, of course, what they do with other drivers, but at least I want to be in control with what I'm releasing. That's what we're going to do.
“I hope, of course, that it's going to be good, because I also understand that Netflix really helped a lot for the popularity, especially in the US, and I don't mind playing a role in that but it needs to be good for both of us.”
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Back in March, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali revealed he would talk to Netflix to ensure the narrative remained connected to reality amid driver complaints. Verstappen essentially hopes he will have some sort of say in how his footage is used to depict his personality.
The Red Bull star added: “I think for the future, we came to a good understanding of how we can work together. So yeah, I’m sure in the next one, you will see a little bit more of me.”
Drive to Survive has played a crucial role in attracting new young fans to a sport that was struggling, bringing a surge of popularity in the previously notoriously difficult to break American market. However, the show has drawn criticism from seasoned fans and figures within the sport who have accused Netflix of manufacturing rivalries between drivers and placing both conversations and radio comments out of context.
The 22-race F1 2022 campaign continues with the British Grand Prix at Silverstone on July 3.
