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Four Netflix documentaries about motorsport icons to watch over the Easter weekend

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Willy T.Ribbs. Image: Youtube
Willy T.Ribbs. Image: Youtube

In the second instalment of rad car and motorsport content to watch, we've focused on documentaries that tell the story about the men behind the wheel. 

And as we head into the long weekend, there's some time to relax and catch up with motorsport content on Netflix, seen as though there's no live racing of any kind because of the restrictions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. 

We've picked out four documentaries focused on some of the most prominent motorsport personalities in history, from Willy T. Ribbs who shattered the colour barrier in an all-white sport to Formula 1 great Ayrton Senna. 

Speaking of F1 greats, there's a beautiful story about Argentine driver Juan Manuel Fangio who dominated the sport in its first decade and won five world championships. 

Last but not least is a feature on Carroll Shelby, the American racing car driver, and more importantly, the man behind many modified Ford products but also an integral part of the Le Mans 24 Hours wins in the late 1960s.

So rummage through your cupboard, dust off the racing overalls, helmet, gloves and boots, and strap in for a wild ride through the lives of these four incredible motorsport icons. 

Here are some of our top picks, but remember all you need to do is type in cars or motorsport in the search bar and you'll find a treasure trove of shows. 

UPPITY: The Willy T. Ribbs Story


The trailer says: "One of the most powerful stories in sports history. Willy T. Ribbs was the Jackie Robinson of motor racing who shattered the colour-barrier in an all-white sport. Willy was referred to as "Uppity" behind his back by mechanics and other racers."  

Senna


"Senna's remarkable story, charting his physical and spiritual achievements on the track and off, his quest for perfection, and the mythical status he has since attained, is the subject of Senna, a documentary feature that spans the racing legend's years as a Formula 1 driver, from his opening season in 1984 to his untimely death a decade later", the producers said. 

The life of speed: The Juan Manuel Fangio story


Juan Manuel Fangio was the Formula 1 king, winning five world championships in the early 1950s — before protective gear or safety features were used.

Shelby American


As the trailer says: "This documentary tells the story of automotive icon Carroll Shelby. He started out from humble beginnings as a chicken farmer in East Texas and went on to become one of the most successful drivers in the history of American motorsports."

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