Netflix has brought a huge audience to the sport ever since it released its F1 docu-series – Drive to Survive. But their dramatisation of the sport has led many to question the accuracy of the events portrayed.
Nevertheless, McLaren boss Zak Brown believes that the drivers need to understand that the show brings in a massive audience which in turn brings money and helps the teams pay the bills.
In Brown’s opinion, Netflix is a moneymaker for Formula 1. It brings fans from across the globe, newer countries begin to show interest in hosting the event.
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McLaren boss happy with renewal of DTS
Furthermore, the McLaren boss explained, “You have broadcasters that want to spend money and broadcast our event, which then all trickles down to the racing teams, which then allows us to pay all the salaries of the men and women that work at our racing teams, drivers included.”
Speaking on the matter, the McLaren boss seemed quite satisfied with F1 renewing the collaboration for couple more years.
The 2023 line-up of the Woking-based team, Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, has a collective payout of about $21 Million. Of which, Norris will earn $20 Million and approx $800,000 will go into the pocket of Piastri.
Drivers’ criticism of the Netflix show
Especially after the release of the latest season of the show earlier this year which portrayed a tense relationship between McLaren duo Daniel Ricciardo and Lando Norris, the two drivers played down the drama portrayed on the show.
Max Verstappen too had been vocal about the show by refraining from being interviewed by the Netflix crew because he believes that the series showcases “fake rivalries.”
However, despite the criticisms from the driver, F1 continues to collaborate with Netflix to print cash and reach a wider audience.
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