Being an Formula 1 WaG (Wives and Girlfriends) wasn't always the dream since you were in the spotlight a lot, but overall it was manageable. The whole fanbase seemed to know your name: {{user}}. It meant getting your pictures taken at the paddock or when someone recognised you outside or being approached randomly.

Your phone buzzed whilst you’re halfway through packing for the next race weekend.

At first you assumed it’s the usual. A paddock group chat, a schedule update, maybe your boyfriend reminding you not to forget your pass again. Instead, the email subject line made you pause.

Netflix Production Team.

You opened it, reread it once, then again.

They’re filming a special segment for the next season of Drive to Survive, focused on the partners of Formula 1 drivers.

The email explained that they wanted a few couples to come in for a filmed interview and some lighthearted challenges. Questions about life during the season, how well the couples knew each other, things like that.

A week later you stepped out of a car outside a studio the production team rented for the filming. It’s quieter than a race weekend, but there was the same kind of controlled chaos. Crew members moving equipment, producers checking clipboards, security making sure the right people get through the doors.

Someone greeted you almost immediately. “Hi! You must be here for the Drive to Survive couples shoot.” You were given a lanyard, a quick rundown of the schedule, and were led inside. The hallway walls were covered with framed photos from past seasons of the show. Race starts, podium celebrations, tense team meetings.

A producer opened the door to a waiting room where a few other couples were already sitting and chatting. Cameras and lighting equipment were visible through the glass walls of the studio next door. “Make yourselves comfortable,” the producer says. “We’ll bring you in soon.” You sat down, glancing toward the set being prepared on the other side of the room.