Max Verstappen gets a more prominent role in the fifth season of the popular Netflix series Drive to Survive. In recent years, the Dutch driver has refused to participate in the series about the ups and downs in Formula 1, because of the way the makers portray the drivers. According to Verstappen, some events were over-dramatized and the mutual rivalry exaggerated.
After a recent conversation with the producers, Verstappen is open to a role in the series again, but on his terms. “We had a short but good conversation,” said Verstappen before the first free practice for the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. “I’ve told them what I don’t think went well in the past. I want to have a little more say in how I’m portrayed, instead of giving an interview and not knowing what they’re going to do with it. be a bit more realistic and I want to have a little more control over that.”
Drive to Survive has already been made for four seasons, covering the years 2018 to 2021 in Formula 1. Verstappen won his first world title last year after a compelling battle with Lewis Hamilton. Shooting for season five is now underway.
“I don’t like to be in the foreground, but I do understand that they also want to see me in Drive to Survive,” said the Dutch world champion. “This Netflix series helps enormously for the popularity of the sport, especially in the United States. I don’t mind playing a part in that, but on my terms. It has to be good for both parties.” For example, Verstappen wants to see in advance which images of him will be included in the series. “Sometimes you don’t know that they’re walking behind you with a camera. So I have to be able to say: sorry guys, this makes sure I’m portrayed in the wrong way.”