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If you’re a casual fan falling into the Formula 1 rabbit hole, we’ve got you covered with these documentaries.
With more and more audiences getting into Formula 1, it’s only natural that some fans begin to take interest in the sport’s rich history, one that’s filled with icons that set high standards for the current generation of drivers to chase.
Looking to learn more about F1’s storied past? Here are five documentaries that you should add to your watch list.
Senna (2010)
From 1984 to 1994, the late Ayrton Senna was one of F1’s biggest names, thanks to his natural charisma, and an aggressive driving style that captured many audiences. Given this, it’s no surprise that Senna’s name remains relevant among F1 circles.
Along with official highlights from F1, a 2010 documentary on Senna has been important to preserving the Brazilian star’s legacy — from his humble beginnings with Toleman, to his heated rivalry with Alain Prost in McLaren.
If you’re only getting into F1, then Senna is definitely a must-watch, as it offers a quick history lesson on one of the sport’s most electrifying figures.
Williams (2017)
Understandably, most fans might be unfamiliar with Williams’ glory days, being exposed to the long-time constructor as a midfielder or even a backmarker. Through Williams (2017), we get to know more about their founder, Frank Williams, along with their more competitive periods in F1.
Given the film’s release date, there is also the topic of running a storied family business, as Williams F1 was handled by Frank’s daughter, Claire, from 2013 to 2020.
Formula 1: Drive to Survive (2019-present)
Without a doubt, Drive to Survive has been instrumental behind the F1 hype, thanks to its overall presentation of the sport — placing an emphasis on the thrill of F1, while adopting a reality show-type of format.
Admittedly, the fan-favorite series can become too sensationalized, and some clips are taken out of context for the sake of entertainment. Still, we won’t deny that it’s a good entry point for those getting into F1. Each season since 2019 has been covered by the series, giving both old and new fans a unique way to make up for lost time.
Schumacher (2021)
If the NBA has Michael Jordan, then F1 has Michael Schumacher when it comes to GOAT debates. Understandable, given that “Schumi” won seven F1 titles, along with a then-record of 91 race wins. Not to mention, his defining years also came with Scuderia Ferrari, a team that boasts a rich legacy in motorsports.
Schumacher’s legendary F1 career was the subject of a 2021 documentary by Netflix, offering an intimate look into the Boy Wonder’s life, while tapping into nostalgia through key interviews and archive racing footage.
F1: The Academy (2025)
It was in 2023 when the Formula One Group launched F1 Academy, meant to give female drivers the necessary platform and experience to chase their F1 dreams. In a bid to ramp up exposure, the championship also received a docuseries entitled F1: The Academy that was released on Netflix in May last year.
Comprising seven episodes, F1: The Academy takes a similar approach as Drive to Survive, giving the single-seater championship a reality show treatment. Ultimately, it’s a series that provides much-needed visibility to a tight-knit community, and could even inspire young girls to take up motorsports in the future.
Banner images from McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team on X.