Netflix confirms Drive to Survive 9 as 2026 F1 season heads to small screen

The popular documentary series takes viewers behind the scenes of the Formula 1 World Championship, following the drivers, teams and other key figures across each season. Combining footage from race weekends with interviews and exclusive paddock access, the show quickly captured the attention of both established F1 fans and casual viewers who stumbled across it, many of whom went on to develop a genuine interest in the sport.

Since its debut in 2019, the series has often divided opinion among Formula 1 fans, but its success is undeniable. Drive to Survive has helped the sport reach a much broader audience around the world, attracting a new generation of viewers and introducing countless new fans to Formula 1.

Fans will now also be able to relive the events of the 2026 season on the small screen. The campaign marked one of the biggest regulatory overhauls in Formula 1’s recent history and has so far delivered a thrilling championship storyline, despite Kimi Antonelli holding a commanding lead at the top of the standings.

The young Italian, however, will have to contend not only with the two Ferraris and his own teammate heading into the closing stages of the championship, but also with the growing threat posed by Lando Norris and McLaren.

The reigning world champion has claimed back-to-back victories in Hungary and the Netherlands, putting himself firmly back into title contention. More importantly, the MCL40 has rediscovered a level of competitiveness reminiscent of McLaren’s dominant car from last season.

James Gay-Rees and Paul Martin, Executive Producers at Box to Box, the production company behind the series, expressed their excitement about returning for a ninth season, revealing that the new instalment will offer even greater access to the behind-the-scenes world of Formula 1.

An official release date has yet to be announced, but if the series follows the pattern established since its launch in 2019, the new season should become available shortly before the start of the 2027 campaign.