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The fourth season of Netflix’s Drive to Survive is rumoured to be released between the 9th and 11th of March. Reigning World Champion, Max Verstappen will not be taking part.
Throughout the 2021 Formula One season, the main storyline was the battle between Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen. However, the Dutchman made it clear towards the end of last year that he would not be a contributor to the docuseries.
Verstappen told The Associated Press that he understands “it needs to be done to boost the popularity in America”. The sport has in recent years had a number of new fans express interest after Drive to Survive was released.
He added:
“But from my side as a driver, I don’t like being part of it.”
The series has been criticised in the past for dramatising situations, such as the supposed rivalry in 2020 between Lando Norris and Carlos Sainz, who were McLaren teammates. The reality was that the two were close friends and known for their bromance.
Verstappen has said that he knows “they faked a few rivalries” which “don’t really exist”. He said he just wants “facts and real things to happen” because he is “not really a dramatic show kind of person”.
Whilst Verstappen has not recorded specific pieces for the series, he will feature through existing footage.
He is aware that it is likely some of his clashes with Hamilton will feature, and he joked that the two “bumped into each other walking” one time, “so probably that will be in there”.
Bernie Ecclestone has supported Verstappen in his decision to not take part.
Speaking to Reuters, Ecclestone said that he knows “it’s not going to be very real”. He understands that “when you see things that you know are completely wrong”, you would be a bit like Max and “get a bit upset”.
Feature Image Credit: Getty Images
