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Coverage

  • 1.6k
    Online Mentions
  • 2BN
    Total Reach
  • $20M
    AVE
  • 5M
    global Netflix viewership in the first 3 months since release.

‘The Seat’ Reached the Top 10 on Netflix in 27 countries in its first week.

Context

Context

‘The Seat’ shed light on a significant transition within the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Set against the backdrop of Lewis Hamilton’s departure, the film focused on rising talent Kimi Antonelli as he stepped into the most defining moment in his career. Offering behind-the-scenes access, WhatsApp explored the journey and its significance in moments of navigating change and making high-stakes decisions in the world of Formula One.

Activation Overview

This 45-minute documentary offered an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team's decision-making process following the departure of Lewis Hamilton. It explored the options considered and highlighted the Team's commitment to its young driver program as part of a long-term succession strategy. The documentary provided a rare insight into the inner workings of the Team and the private conversations that took place through WhatsApp, which played a pivotal role in the process.

Central to the story was Kimi, the Team's chosen rising star, as the film followed his journey from the junior ranks to the pinnacle of Formula One. Viewers gained insight into the intensive preparation involved — from test track sessions and physical conditioning to mental training and media readiness. The documentary also delved into Kimi’s personal story, uncovering what drives him, his background, personality, support network, and the relationships that have shaped his career so far.

The documentary was released on Netflix on the 5th of May, after the Miami Grand Prix, where Kimi achieved his first sprint podium in his career.

Objectives

Objectives

From a storytelling perspective, the film was set out to provide fans with never-before-seen access and insights into the decision to choose Kimi Antonelli for the second seat on the Team, introducing him to the public and building his persona as he started his first season in Formula 1.

Throughout the documentary the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team was featured using WhatsApp messaging services, showcasing importance of moments of privacy and closeness during a pivotal moment in the history of the Team and reinforcing WhatsApp brand messaging focused on privacy, connection and reliability.

Fan Feedback

Fan Feedback

Fan Feedback

“The Seat” is one of the best documentaries I have ever seen. 10/10, emotional but exciting. I love to see Kimi getting a documentary.”

“What an emotional rollercoaster that 40 minutes was 😅 such an incredible team! So excited for the future!🔥”

“This documentary is amazing, can’t wait for this kid to be a champion one day✨🙌🏻💙”

Watch the Trailer