Netflix has been investing in sports docuseries in recent years, especially those related to racing, particularly after the overwhelming success of Formula 1’s Drive to Survive, which will soon premiere its season 6.
Just two days ago, a new title in this genre was added to the platform’s catalog, namely NASCAR: Full Speed, which has garnered a significant number of viewers and has become the fifth most-watched production in the United States.
The first season follows the drivers and their teams, propelled by the passion and glory of the NASCAR Cup, as they compete for the championship and the opportunity to make history in this sports docuseries.
NASCAR: Full Speed ranked Nro. 5 on Netflix US
NASCAR is one of the premier auto racing organizations in the United States, with a rich history, a loyal fan base, and a significant presence in the world of motorsports. Therefore, it was expected that a series based on it would quickly become one of the most-watched.
Netflix’s NASCAR: Full Speed. (Source: Netflix)
According to Flix Patrol, the new Netflix series has managed to enter the platform’s podium and has become the fifth most-watched in the United States, having only been in the catalog for two days. It has also surpassed titles such as “Loudermilk” with Ron Livingston and the popular reality show “Queer Eye”.
It’s not the first time that a production based on this motorsport has found a home on streaming, as previously, Nascar Drivers: 360 premiered, airing in 2004 and 2005, and Nascar: The Rise of American Speed was released in 2016 via Prime Video. However, this time it’s designed to attract thousands of users.
NASCAR’s Senior Vice President and Chief Digital Officer, Tim Clark, confessed in an interview: “If there’s a fan who’s familiar with the sport, they’ll see a lot of things in this program they’ve never seen before. If it’s a new fan, I think it’s presenting them a world that hopefully sparks their interest and makes them want to take the next step towards fandom”.
What is NASCAR: Full Speed about?
The documentary in series format is based on person-centric narratives, more specifically on the 16 drivers who competed in the 2023 Cup Series Playoffs. Each episode unfolds the drama of the postseason both on and off the track, capturing the intensity of the Playoffs.
All aspects of the event are laid bare, showcasing key performances and the day-to-day decisions that the drivers must make. According to various official sources, the series aims to provide a first-person experience of what it’s like to be a driver for the franchise, offering an intimate look at dreams to fulfill and sacrifices to be made.
The first season is led by Joey Logano, Denny Hamlin, Kyle Larson, Tyler George Reddick, Ross Chastain, William Byron, Darrell Wallace Jr. and Ryan Michael Blaney.
How important is NASCAR?
The NASCAR Cup Series features the best drivers in the category competing at an extremely high level of skill and experience. Winning it is a significant achievement due to the intense competition among teams and drivers.
In itself, it has a rich history dating back to the founding of NASCAR in 1948. Over the years, it has witnessed historic moments and produced legends in motorsports. Iconic events like the Daytona 500 have contributed to the tradition and importance of the series.
Netflix’s NASCAR: Full Speed. (Source: IMDb)
Moreover, it serves as a stepping stone for career and driver development, as many aspire to compete in the NASCAR Cup, and success in this series often leads to opportunities in other categories and a legendary status within motorsports.
What is the difference between NASCAR and Formula 1?
Well, the importance of Formula 1 and NASCAR is subjective and depends on various factors, including fan perspectives, geographic region, and individual preferences. Both are important in the realm of motorsports but differ in several aspects.
Formula 1 is recognized as the elite global category of motorsports, with races on various continents and a rich history. It has global appeal and is often considered the pinnacle of motorsports. In contrast, NASCAR is primarily popular in the United States.
On the other hand, F1 races primarily take place on road circuits and urban tracks, as the cars are aerodynamic and designed to reach high speeds on different types of tracks. Meanwhile, NASCAR races focus mainly on ovals, and the cars (stock cars) are designed to compete on this type of track.
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Finally, Formula 1 has unique culture and traditions, with iconic teams, legendary drivers, and a glamorous presence at international events. Although NASCAR is also widely known, it is often associated with American motorsports culture, with roots in stock car racing and a close connection to fans in the country.
