Netflix confirms 'Drive to Survive' returns for 9th season covering 2026

Netflix has officially confirmed that its behind-the-scenes docuseries Formula 1: Drive to Survive will return for a ninth season, covering the ongoing 2026 season. The show, which premiered in 2019, promises to go "deeper than ever before" into the hidden spaces of the paddock and the drivers' lives, according to executive producers James Gay-Rees and Paul Martin.

Why it matters:

Drive to Survive has been a major force in reshaping F1's audience, particularly in the United States, where it has attracted a legion of younger and more diverse viewers. A ninth season continues that momentum during a year of major regulation changes and intense rivalries, cementing the show's role in the sport's global growth.

The details:

• The season: The ninth season will focus on the 2026 championship, which is already underway. Fans expect the series to land on Netflix in 2027.
• The producers: "We're so excited to be making Season 9 of this iconic show," said Gay-Rees and Martin. "This year we're going to go deeper than ever before into the hidden spaces of this fantastic sport."
• The impact: Since its debut, the series has provided unprecedented access to the paddock and drivers' personal lives. Despite criticism over its creative editing, it has been instrumental in F1's popularity boom, especially in the U.S. and with a younger, more diverse audience.
• Fan reaction: Social media is already buzzing. One fan commented "The Aston Martin episode will be Absolute Television," while others are "Looking forward to the DTS marathon."

What's next:

The ninth season is expected to premiere in 2027, offering a deep look back at the 2026 season. It will continue to capture the storylines, rivalries, and off-track moments that have made the series a cultural phenomenon.