Netflix show Drive To Survive has changed the trajectory of motorsport. Since the show aired, F1 has become a household name. The viewership growth in the USA itself is a whopping 37%. So, it isn’t too difficult to analyze how the popularity has impacted the entities of the sport. Despite the benefits of newfound fame, there have also been drawbacks. Considered a major power of DTS, Daniel Ricciardo has shared the insights of the stardom. Before that, Danny gives a quick throwback from his childhood.

Little Daniel felt disheartened by the lack of recognition for motorsport in his school. Even the teachers dismissed his passion, saying “That’s not a real thing” when he talked about racing cars. However, appearing on DTS changed perceptions over time. Reflecting on the show’s impact, the former Red Bull driver expressed gratitude: “For me, the fact that this has given a platform to share the sport with the world and kind of get the respect. And people can see it and appreciate it.”

“People see it how I’ve always seen it,” a gleeful ‘Honey Badger’ shared. But, there is a not-so-good side of all things good. Daniel Ricciardo shared his experience as a driver, post-DTS. He revealed: “The worst was people come up to me and I don’t think they know I’m a race car driver. They’re like, hey, you were great on that show. I’m not an actor. I’m actually a driver.” The sport gained recognition, but drivers are now misunderstood as actors. This isn’t ideal since it diminishes the genuine efforts of the racers.

Meanwhile, the makers of Drive To Survive, can’t thank Daniel enough for his contribution to the show. Not just for his presence and performance documentation, but for his efforts in bringing the entire grid to an agreement to appear in DTS.

Daniel Ricciardo’s role in making the drive to survive a massive hit

The Netflix series channeled new life into F1. However, with the Australian’s help, the show couldn’t have seen the dawn of light. Producer Paul Martin revealed that the show was supposed to be about Red Bull. And Daniel Ricciardo was to be at the center of the drama. But when the Netflix board came in, they demanded the presence of the entire grid [more people, more drama!]. Sadly, the Ferrari and Mercedes teams refused to cooperate, causing serious doubts about the whole project.

The producer stated: “Without Danny, there wouldn’t be a show. He was the first person who bought into the idea of it. He understood what it was, what was needed.” Adding, “If we hadn’t had Danny and Christian Horner, I’m not sure we would have even got to the end of that first year.” Complimenting Ricciardo further, Paul Martin says he’s very honest about himself and his work, and that makes him special among the rest. Since DTS, major companies like Cadillac, Audi, and Porsche have been trying to burst into F1. With billions of dollars of sponsorships and more, F1 is blooming at its best.

Thanks to Drive To Survive for taking F1 into every household worldwide. Moreover, the profit of its popularity is unparalleled. Meanwhile, one shouldn’t overlook the setbacks: tagging the efforts of the drivers as acting is unfair to their craftsmanship. However, true fans of F1 know what goes into conducting a good race. Daniel Ricciardo’s evaluation of life before and after DTS, and a sad anecdote from his childhood give an insight into his life as an F1 driver.

Were you a fan of F1 before DTS or did DTS get you into F1? Share your stories below!