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'Formula 1: Drive to Survive' season 2: Release date, plot, cast and everything you need to know about the F1 and Netflix-produced docuseries

Encouraged by the response it garnered after a successful first season, the series was renewed for a second season that will document the ongoing 2019 F1 World Championship

What went behind Daniel Ricciardo's shocking move from Red Bull Racing to Renault? What did the Haas F1 team go through in 2018 on and off the track? Who were the new drivers who came into the 2018 season with a point to prove? All of these questions were answered when the F1 and Netflix-produced ten-part docuseries, 'Formula 1: Drive to Survive,' premiered on the streaming service this March. 

Received warmly by the audience and praised for its visually-stunning appeal, the docuseries also shed light on what went on behind the scenes during the 2018 FIA Formula One World Championship. Encouraged by the response it garnered, the series was renewed for a second season that documents the ongoing 2019 World Championship.

Here's what we know about 'Formula 1: Drive to Survive' season 2 so far.

Release date

While the exact date of the series is yet to be confirmed, we can expect the ten-part docuseries to release a week prior to the 2020 racing season. The first season debuted on Netflix March 8, a week before the Melbourne Grand Prix which saw lights out on March 25.

Plot

The biggest focus this season will be on two drivers, Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel. The former is well-placed to become six-time world champion while Vettel has had a forgettable season so far. The onus will also be on Ferrari's latest racing sensation, Charles Leclerc and Red Bull Racing's Pierre Gasly who have made some impressive inroads for their respective teams.

Incidentally, this will also be the first time Mercedes and Ferrari will make an appearance on the series. Much like last year, expect some episodes on the plight of Haas, Williams and Toro Rosso who have not fulfilled their potential.

McLaren and its drivers too may get an episode after having a cracking run in the ongoing championship. Aussie Daniel Ricciardo was the season opener last time and the Renault driver will be seen to some degree after a disappointing season with his new team. Oh, and let's not forget the driver rivalries of the season. 

Cast

All the drivers, team principals and veteran race journalists who have covered the sport religiously for some time now. Daniel Ricciardo (Renault), Max Verstappen, Pierre Gasly and Christian Horner, the team principal (Red Bull Racing), Sebastian Vettel, Charles Leclerc, and Mattia Binotto, the team principal (Scuderia Ferrari), Gunther Steiner, team principal (Haas F1), Kimi Raikkonen (Alfa Romeo), Carlos Sainz, Lando Norris and Zak Brown, the team principal (McLaren) are all slated to make a probable appearances this season. 

That Mercedes and Ferrari will be part of season 2 means we'll probably see more of Lewis Hamilton and Sebastian Vettel as well. 

Director/Writer

James Gay-Rees, Paul Martin and Sophie Todd were roped in as the executive producers for the first season and while there haven't been any official announcements regarding the EPs for season 2, it is pretty much a given the trio will be back to helm the project again. 

Trailer

Expect a trailer to come in probably a few weeks once the 2019 season is done. With the docuseries slated to release next year, there's still time before we get any footage releases. Watch this space as we'll update you when the trailer vrooms in. 

News

Talking about the renewal, Ian Holmes, Director of Media Rights at Formula 1 said: "We are thrilled to once again be working with Netflix on the second series of Drive to Survive." He added, "It is a truly unique series which allows fans to see the unseen side of F1, showcasing the personalities and emotions each team and driver goes through, both on and off the grid."

"Drive to Survive has enabled us to reach an entirely new fanbase globally and partnering with Netflix for a second season ensures we are continuing to put fans at the heart of what we do and make the sport more open and accessible to all."

Watch this space for more updates on 'Formula 1: Drive to Survive' season 2.

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