Lando Norris Criticizes Drive to Survive for Misrepresenting Max Verstappen

Formula 1 is gearing up for the inaugural race of the season in the United States: the Miami Grand Prix. For McLaren driver Lando Norris, this track holds a special significance as it was here that he clinched his first career victory in 2024. The seventh season of Drive to Survive covered this event in its episode titled “Frenemies,” but it’s clear that the Netflix series took some creative liberties – liberties that Norris himself has criticized.

Lando Norris’ Historic Win at the 2024 Miami Grand Prix

Starting from fifth on the grid, Norris dropped a position early as Red Bull driver Max Verstappen led from pole. However, when then-Williams driver Logan Sargeant collided with Kevin Magnussen of Haas, a safety car deployment provided an opportunity for Norris and his Woking team to advance.

Following the race, Verstappen said, “You win, you lose. I think we’re all used to that… If a bad day is P2, I take it, and I’m happy for Lando. It’s been a long time coming.

Drive to Survive’s Creative Interpretation of Events

When Netflix released the accompanying episode in March this year, fans who had watched the race noticed several discrepancies between what was shown on the episode and what actually transpired. In fact, the entire episode focused on the growing bitter rivalry between the two drivers. In reality, there was no such thing.

The portrayal of Max, and the alleged hostility between the two drivers, was unnecessary, according to Norris. He believes that such misrepresentation can lead to incorrect perceptions about individuals. “It is almost lying in some ways, and I just don’t think that’s correct,” he added.

James Gay-Rees’ Response to Lando Norris’ Comments

Drive to Survive’s executive producer, James Gay-Rees, later responded to Norris’ comments, arguing that the series is merely an interpretation of events. “You have to get the essence of what you’re trying to get across,” he told The National. “It becomes an interpretation of what happened, but our ambition is always to tell an authentic story.

Gay-Rees further explained, “That’s why it’s such a great place to make a show. There are heroes and villains. People are out to win at any price and will do whatever it takes. It’s a very fertile precinct in which to make a series because it’s so contained. The characters don’t change. It’s dangerous and political and scandalous and gossipy. Those are the key ingredients.”

Verstappen has had a complex relationship with the Netflix series, having refused to participate in earlier seasons due to his dissatisfaction with how he was portrayed. He has since returned, but his screen time is significantly reduced compared to most drivers.

The Impact of Drive to Survive on Formula 1

Despite the controversy surrounding its portrayal of events, Drive to Survive has had a profound impact on Formula 1. The series has attracted a younger, more diverse fanbase, which is highly commendable. However, it’s the human stories and innovation that make this sport so captivating.

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