In a thrilling twist for Formula 1 fans, the celebrated docuseries ‘Drive to Survive’ has claimed victory at the 46th Annual Sports Emmy Awards, earning the title of Outstanding Documentary Series – Serialized. This accolade shines a spotlight on the show’s unique storytelling and its impact on the Formula 1 fandom.
‘Drive to Survive’ first hit screens in 2019, focusing each season on the high-octane world of Formula 1. The seventh season, released in March 2025, centered around the 2023 F1 season where Max Verstappen clinched his third world title. This achievement marks the second time the series has nabbed this distinguished award, also taking it home in 2022.
Executive producer James Gay-Rees expressed enthusiasm about the series’ approach, especially given the dominance of Red Bull in that season. “Obviously you’re not talking about a season where there’s a massive title rivalry, so really it’s interesting watching the fight for second, third, fourth taking place,” he commented. He highlighted drivers like Oscar Piastri and Pierre Gasly who have compelling narratives, and noted Daniel Ricciardo’s return to F1 as a significant boost for the series.
Despite concerns of a potentially lackluster season due to Red Bull’s dominance, the production team found a treasure trove of stories. Mercedes, for instance, had a rocky start but managed to turn things around, while Aston Martin began strong only to falter later. These unexpected developments provided ample material, keeping the series engaging.
Max Verstappen himself shared mixed feelings about his portrayal, noting, “I get for the casual viewer that it may get a bit repetitive with Max winning every weekend, but I do think, in hindsight, people are going to understand what an amazing driver he is.” He emphasized the challenges of driving such a difficult car, a testament to his skills that might not always be captured by the show.
Overall, ‘Drive to Survive’ continues to open up the world of Formula 1 to new audiences, significantly influencing its global popularity. With over 700 million viewers, the series has altered the perception and fan engagement of the sport, underscoring its success beyond awards.
As ‘Drive to Survive’ rewrites the rules of sports documentaries, its Emmy win is a testament to its compelling storytelling and its role in transforming the landscape of Formula 1 fandom. The series not only chronicles races but also delves into the personal journeys and dramas that define the sport, making it a must-watch for long-time fans and newcomers alike.
