The beginning of season five starts with a quick recap of the 2021 season finale which, for some fans, might prove a bruising experience given the controversial events from the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
But that shouldn’t detract from what is another must-watch series, with the opening segment of the 2022 season providing a nice palate cleanser as buddies Mattia Binotto and Gunther Steiner enjoy a getaway in the Italian Dolomites in a Fiat 500, visiting the now former Ferrari principal’s vineyard.
It sets the tone for the entire season, deftly balancing the tension and rivalries that make F1 so compelling with light-hearted moments that show a more human side to the protagonists. The opening episode quickly shifts gears to focus on the Bahrain curtain raiser and the ‘new dawn’ of F1 with the new-for-2022 technical regulations.
Netflix Drive to Survive Season 5: Release date, how to watch and more
More comedic relief follows when Mercedes’ radical zero-pod concept attracts a lot of attention – and more than a hint of scorn – by rival drivers. While their reservations soon prove justified by Mercedes’ on-track struggles, attention moves to Ferrari which does seem to have the tools to finally deliver the demanding tifosi another crown. It’s a story arc that is followed in later episodes, even if we know by now it wasn’t a happy ending….
It quickly becomes apparent that Netflix and production company Box to Box Films have stuck to their guns. After all, why change a winning formula that has helped elevate F1’s popularity to unseen heights?
The fly on the wall aspect of its camera crew, which follows different drivers and teams every weekend, again delivers some candid insight and comedic gold dust that makes fans feel like they’re in the moment. Sharing the heartbreak of Daniel Ricciardo and Mick Schumacher’s struggles in their bespoke episodes is in contrast to the banter as Kevin Magnussen lives his best life on his unlikely Haas return.
Narrative context continues to be provided by talking heads – the excellent Will Buxton is as quotable as ever – while plenty of drivers and team bosses take centre stage in front of the camera.
Verstappen returns to the show after discussing his concerns with producers
Photo by: Mark Sutton / Motorsport Images
Having refused to take part in previous seasons due to a disagreement over the creative licence DTS takes with F1’s storylines and its portrayal of drivers, reigning world champion Max Verstappen has…
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