Drive to Survive Season 8 to premiere in late February

Formula 1 has officially confirmed that the eighth season of the hit Netflix docuseries "Drive to Survive" is set to premiere on February 27. The upcoming installment promises to dive deep into the pivotal storylines and fierce rivalries that defined the 2025 championship campaign, arriving just as the pre-season build-up for the 2026 season begins.

Why it matters:

The release continues the strategic partnership between F1 and Netflix, a relationship that has fueled the sport's explosion in popularity, particularly in the United States. As the sport prepares for a massive regulatory overhaul in 2026, this season offers a retrospective look at the final chapter of the current technical era, cementing the legacies of teams and drivers before the competitive landscape resets.

The details:

• Timing: The February 27 release date maintains the series' traditional slot, dropping just weeks before the cars hit the track for pre-season testing and the opening round of the 2026 championship.
• Narrative Focus: While specific plot details remain under wraps, the show is expected to cover the intense battles for the 2025 titles, mid-season team dynamics, and the strategic maneuvers that shaped the final standings.
• Global Reach: The series has been a critical driver of Formula 1's growth, transforming drivers into household names and expanding the sport's footprint into new markets by making the inner workings of the paddock accessible to a mainstream audience.

Looking Ahead:

As the 2026 season looms with its new regulations, "Drive to Survive" will provide the context and backstory necessary for fans to understand the dynamics heading into the new era. The release will likely spark renewed debate over the accuracy of its editing style, but its viewership numbers are expected to remain high as the sport continues its expansion.