Growing the Game: What’s the deal with docuseries?

FORMULA 1: DRIVE TO SURVIVE/NETFLIX

Back in 2019, the world was introduced to a more intimate, drama filled side of motorsport. Netflix released season one of Formula 1: Drive to Survive. No one expected this documentary-style series to revolutionize the world of sports.

Drive to Survive gave the audience a glimpse into what really goes on in the paddock. With episodes focused on individual drivers. 

The docuseries followed the whole Formula 1 season in an exhilarating journey for those who knew nothing about the sport. The series showed bits of races, the driver’s thoughts after a win or a loss, even the team’s expectations heading into the season. 

The release was such a success that season 7 dropped this past March. People were introduced to a whole new world in motorsports, getting to know the drivers and feeling for their wins or losses. This created an increase in viewership as knowing more about their drivers made them increase their care for the team. 

The world was now looking at Formula 1 and many other sports wanted an in. The NHL announced their partnership with Amazon Prime for the release of Faceoff: Inside the NHL. Another docuseries following the lives of different hockey players as they played throughout the season. Just like in Drive to Survive, people were intrigued to know what the life of pro-hockey players was like. 

By creating this kind of media, sports leagues are betting on curating human connection to increase the emotions of fans. Docuseries make athletes appear more human, and more relatable to those who are not in the world of sports. It piques curiosity for those wanting to learn more about a sport, those who want to start cheering for a team but don’t know where to start.

Whether Formula 1 knew they were going to revolutionize the world of sports and media with Drive to Survive, they came up with an excellent idea to grow the game. 

By showcasing the lives and the inside of different leagues, people on the outside can have a better understanding of sport, their teams, and their favorite athletes. Docuseries increase exposure to sports and all those who work in the field.

Growing the game also means growing the understanding of sports, teams and athletes.