Broadcasting service company Netflix will pit racing drivers and golfers against each other in an event commemorating the inaugural Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix in November.
Emily Prazer, Chief Commercial Officer, Las Vegas Grand Prix Inc., commented: “The continued success of Drive to Survive has played a significant role in the growth of Formula 1 in the US, which has ultimately led to the addition of a third American race.
“It’s only fitting that we kick off our inaugural race weekend with a fun event that can be streamed by F1 and PGA TOUR fans around the globe.”
The athletes will compete in a match play tournament at the Wynn Golf Club Las Vegas – the only 18-hole championship golf course on the Strip – as part of the latest Netflix sports project ‘The Netflix Cup’.
Steve Weitman, President of Wynn Las Vegas, said: “The Wynn Golf Club has hosted a number of unique matchups over the years and The Netflix Cup will be an incredible addition to the storied history of the course.
“This tournament will showcase a tremendous roster of talent, competing on the only golf course on the Las Vegas Strip, just steps away from the inaugural Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.”
Set to stream on 14 November, The Netflix Cup will include Formula 1 drivers Alex Albon, Pierre Gasly, Lando Norris, and Carlos Sainz. On the professional golfing side, PGA’s Rickie Fowler, Max Homa, Collin Morikawa and Justin Thomas will be taking part.
All players will be split into four pairs consisting of one Formula 1 driver and one PGA TOUR golfer, which they’ll then play an eight-hole match, with the top two teams advancing to the final hole and their chance to win The Netflix Cup title.
Gabe Spitzer, Vice President, Nonfiction Sports, Netflix, said: “We love to see how our sports series have brought increased fandom to sports leagues and competitions all over the world.
“The Netflix Cup will take that energy to the next level with global stars from two popular hits competing in our first-ever live sports event.”
Designed to reach the widest audience possible, The Netflix Cup will be produced by Excel Sports Management, BZ Entertainment, and Full Day Productions, while being sanctioned by the PGA Tour and Formula 1 themselves.
Norb Gambuzza, PGA TOUR Senior Vice President, Media and Gaming, commented: “The PGA TOUR is proud to participate in this significant milestone for Netflix and we look forward to showcasing our sport’s professional athletes to a live global audience.
“New and diverse audiences have come to know more about both our sports and their athletes through Full Swing and Drive to Survive, and we are excited to team up with Netflix, Formula 1 and the Las Vegas Grand Prix on this exciting concept.”