F1 announces Netflix deal ahead of 2019 series
Formula 1 has announced a new partnership with video streaming giant Netflix to produce an original docu-series profiling the 2018 season, set to premiere in early 2019.
Following in the footsteps of McLaren's 'Grand Prix Driver' series that debuted on Amazon last month, F1 will now lift the lid on life in the paddock through a 10-episode series, with filming already underway through pre-season testing and in Australia this weekend.
Formula 1 has announced a new partnership with video streaming giant Netflix to produce an original docu-series profiling the 2018 season, set to premiere in early 2019.
Following in the footsteps of McLaren's 'Grand Prix Driver' series that debuted on Amazon last month, F1 will now lift the lid on life in the paddock through a 10-episode series, with filming already underway through pre-season testing and in Australia this weekend.
"This Netflix original series will be the first to truly immerse the audience inside the cockpits, the paddock and the lives of the key players in Formula 1," a statement from F1 reads.
"The series will have unparalleled and exclusive access to the world’s fastest drivers, team principals and owners, as well as Formula 1’s own management team. Netflix has commissioned 10 episodes from the 2018 season, and the production team will film and reveal the intense fight for the heart, soul, and direction for the future of this multibillion-dollar business."
Academy-Award winner James Gay Rees (Senna) and Paul Martin will be the executive producers for the show, while Sophie Todd has been appointed showrunner.
"Formula 1 is a global sport that we are actively repositioning from a motorsport company to a media and entertainment brand. The agreement with Netflix serves to chronicle the fascinating story of what transpires behind the scenes during a grand prix season," F1 commercial chief Sean Bratches said.
"This is a perspective of the sport that has yet to be unveiled to fans around the world. This series will unleash a compelling vantage point to the sport that will delight fans and serve as a catalyst to entice new fans."
Bela Bajaria, Vice President of Content for Netflix, added: "This partnership with Formula 1 furthers our mission of working with world-class brands and production partners to produce best-in-class unscripted series. We can't wait for this weekend's Australian Grand Prix and to embark on an incredible season across the world."
