The Formula 1 world is buzzing with anticipation as the release date for the Brad Pitt-starring film, simply titled "F1," draws near. Set to hit cinemas internationally on June 25th and in North America on June 27th, 2025, the movie has already garnered significant attention, not just from Hollywood enthusiasts, but also from the very heart of the motorsport it depicts.
The film, directed by Joseph Kosinski of "Top Gun: Maverick" fame, promises a high-octane, immersive experience, and has been filmed during actual Grand Prix weekends. This is not a CGI-heavy fantasy; instead, the production team captured live footage at iconic circuits like Silverstone, Monaco, Spa, and the Mexican Grand Prix. Pitt and his co-star, Damson Idris, were even filmed driving modified Formula 2 cars, designed to resemble F1 machines, at speeds reaching up to 180 mph.
The storyline revolves around Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), a former F1 driver whose career was derailed by a crash in the 1990s. Decades later, he's brought back into the fold by his former teammate, Ruben Cervantes (Javier Bardem), to drive for the struggling APXGP team. He is to mentor rising star Joshua "Noah" Pearce (Damson Idris). The film explores themes of rivalry, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of victory in the high-stakes world of Formula 1.
What sets this film apart is its collaboration with Formula 1 and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who serves as a producer, ensuring an authentic portrayal of the sport. Hamilton has spoken of his involvement as an "incredible learning process," emphasizing the effort to accurately represent Formula 1 to a broader audience. The movie has used real F2 single-seaters modified to resemble F1 cars and filmed at real circuits during actual race weekends.
Ahead of the official release, "F1" has been screened for Formula 1 drivers and team principals, generating overwhelmingly positive reviews. Drivers like Lando Norris, Charles Leclerc, and Esteban Ocon have lauded the film's storyline, visuals, and realistic depiction of the racing world. Ocon even went as far as to call it "definitely the best movie of racing" he has ever seen. Pierre Gasly expressed confidence that audiences would enjoy the film's deep dive into the world of Formula 1.
Charles Leclerc highlighted the film's potential to reach a wider audience, stating that it's "reaching people that we wouldn't have reached without this movie." Several drivers also praised the driving scenes, with Carlos Sainz calling them "insane" and Fernando Alonso noting that the film "represents quite well the F1 part of it and the sporting part of it."
Even Haas driver Oliver Bearman, who had the opportunity to see Brad Pitt's driving firsthand, commended his skills behind the wheel. He did an impressive job. He was pushing the car, that's for sure," Bearman said, adding that Pitt "did his homework."
With its blend of Hollywood star power, authentic racing action, and the backing of the Formula 1 community, "F1" is poised to be a major hit, potentially introducing the sport to a new generation of fans. The film promises a thrilling and immersive cinematic experience, capturing the adrenaline, drama, and passion that define Formula 1 racing.
