Formula 1 signs up for two more seasons of 'Drive to Survive'

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Formula 1 and Netflix have confirmed that the popular docu-series 'Drive to Survive' has been renewed for a fifth and sixth season.

'Drive to Survive' which chronicles life behind the scenes in the F1 paddock premiered on Netflix in 2019, and the series was a resounding success from the outset, and has even been credited as one of the main drivers of Grand Prix racing's growth in popularity in America.

But on a global basis, the series has attracted to the sport a new, younger demographic of fans.

Read also: Formula 1 kicks off its festivities in Miami

There has been some criticism of 'Drive to Survive' from within F1 however, with several drivers expressing their discontent with the series' tendency to fabricate intrigue or exaggerate rivalries.

Reigning world champion Max Verstappen has refused to take part in the series, denouncing

"I’m quite a down-to-earth guy, and I just want it to be facts, don’t hype it up," said the Red Bull driver earlier this year.

"I understand of course it needs to be like that for Netflix. It’s just not my thing."

'Drive-to Survive' producer Box to Box Films is already hard at work on Season 5, with its crews appearing in the paddock in the first four races of the season.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.