Nikita Mazepin believes Netflix has shown "weaker side" to "robotic" F1 drivers

Mazepin, Haas, Russia — Photo: © LAT Images

Netflix Drive to Survive

Mazepin believes Netflix has shown "weaker side" to "robotic" F1 drivers

Haas driver is appearing in Drive to Survive for the first time this year

Ian Parkes

Monday 1 November 2021 16:04

Haas driver Nikita Mazepin believes Netflix's 'Drive to Survive' has shown that F1 drivers are human and they do possess "a weaker side" to their characters.

The three seasons of the docu-series to date have opened up F1 to new audiences and have been a key player in popularising the sport in the US market in particular.

For the first time this season, Mazepin has been filmed by the 'Drive to Survive' crew for the latest series that is due to be aired in February next year.

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The Russian feels that after watching and now partaking in the television programme, he can appreciate why the drivers have taken on a different aura compared to the past.

"It's a great show," said Mazepin. "Obviously, it's my first time fully immersed in the show this year.

"I'm looking forward to seeing the outcome and also looking forward to the feedback because drivers sometimes seem robotic.

"People forget there are actually individuals behind helmets who are just the same as everybody else, apart from we have a job of driving in circles.

"But we're the same human beings and they just see a little bit of, let's say, a weaker side to us, a more family side, a more private side that other people in the great audience couldn't achieve.

"So I'm happy Netflix is here, it's growing slowly in Russia, and some seasons are hopefully going to be translated into the Russian language, and thanks to them for coming along."

Mazepin has declared working with the crew "as really cool", and feels he has been able to deliver more of his personality during filming.

"I've tried to do as many normal things as I could," added Mazepin. "We went to my home place, we've been to my university, and loads of other different things.

"We've actually spent a lot of time together, so it's been cool."