F1 drivers defend Netflix series after Verstappen snub

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Formula 1 F1 – United States Grand Prix – Circuit of the Americas, Austin, Texas, USA – October 21, 2021 Red Bulls Max Verstappen before the REUTERS / Mike Blake Grand Prix

October 21 (Reuters) – Formula 1 top drivers defended the popular Netflix (NFLX.O) fly-on-the-wall series “Drive to Survive” on Thursday after Red Bulls championship leader Max Verstappen said he would snub because he felt something of the rivalries were “faked”.

The documentary series, now in its fourth season, is seen as a major contributor to the growth of the sport in the United States.

The 24-year-old Dutchman, Verstappen, previously told the Associated Press that he recognized the importance of the series but was reluctant to take part in it and would not give interviews.

Seven-time Mercedes world champion Lewis Hamilton, Verstappen’s title rival, told reporters at the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas that he had noticed increased interest in the country.

“It’s been the steepest climb in the last few years and more and more people are talking about it, more and more people are getting involved,” he said.

“The amount of emails and messages I get from people I have known for years in the States who never knew what I was doing and are now addicted and can’t wait to come. I think a lot of them are coming this weekend. “

Verstappen’s Mexican teammate Sergio Perez, a two-time race winner who was heavily represented last season, said he respects the documentary’s performance.

“What it has done for Formula One is enormous. It’s really something that I appreciate,” he said.

“The way they sell the sport is a little bit dramatic. It’s a show, but at the end of the day it’s good for the sport and good for the fans so I’m happy with that.”

McLaren’s Lando Norris, who was voted the second most popular driver after Verstappen in a fan poll published on Thursday, also appreciated the show.

“I’m fine,” he said. “I think it’s cool. So many people come to America who are now in Formula One just because they saw ‘Drive to Survive’.” I think I can handle it just fine.

“I think they’re doing a good job. I can’t really speak on Max’s behalf.”

His Australian team-mate Daniel Ricciardo agreed: “Most of us are experiencing the impact on the sport. There has certainly been a lot of growth and I honestly see that most in America.”

“There are times when you want a bit of space or privacy, but I think if you let them know that there are no cameras in this room, they’ll be pretty good at that.”

Reporting by Alan Baldwin in London; Editing by Stephen Coates

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.

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