The world of Formula 1 is never short of drama, both on and off the track. Recently, a misunderstanding between Sergio Perez and commentator Will Buxton over a ‘pay driver’ comment from the first series of Drive to Survive stirred some tension. The situation unfolded during the inaugural season of Netflix’s docuseries, which has captivated fans since its debut in 2019, chronicling the 2018 F1 season where Perez raced with Force India.
The docuseries Drive to Survive has been pivotal in bringing the intricate world of Formula 1 to a broader audience. However, it isn’t just the thrilling races that grab attention; sometimes it’s the off-the-track narratives that create a buzz. One such narrative involved Sergio Perez and Will Buxton, a familiar face in the series as an analyst since its inception.
According to Buxton, during a conversation on ‘Road to Success Stories’, he was confronted by a ‘furious’ Perez. The driver was agitated by a comment Buxton allegedly made, labeling him a ‘pay driver’. The term typically describes a racer who secures their spot in a team through financial backing rather than pure talent. This interaction happened at the Australia paddock, right at the start of the season, where Perez demanded an explanation.
Buxton recounted the incident, explaining that his comments were misconstrued due to out-of-context editing. He clarified that he merely defined the term ‘pay driver’ when asked, and it was not directly aimed at Perez. The confusion was amplified by the series editors juxtaposing his definition with footage of Perez, leading to the misunderstanding.
As tensions simmered, Buxton further recollected Perez confronting him over a separate critical comment about his performance in Singapore, which Buxton stood by as a justified critique. This exchange illustrates the challenges commentators face as they navigate the fine line between analysis and unintended offense.
Perez, who transitioned from Racing Point (which evolved into Aston Martin) to Red Bull in 2021, eventually parted ways with the team in 2024. However, the Mexican driver might soon rejoin the F1 circuit with the new Cadillac team set to debut in 2026. Meanwhile, Perez’s potential return is intertwined with ongoing discussions and speculations, adding another layer to his vibrant career.
Sergio Perez’s encounter with Will Buxton over a misinterpreted comment highlights the complex interplay between media and the personalities involved in Formula 1. While on-track performances remain central, such off-track dynamics add depth to the sport, keeping audiences engaged and connected to their favorite drivers.
