F1: The Movie

HAVING REACHED MORE than $500 million at the box office so far, F1: The Movie is on course to become the highest- grossing film of Brad Pitt’s career. It’s also broken records, which is absolutely fantastic news for the sport of Formula 1. In the wake of its success, I can’t help joking with people: “Hey, have you seen that movie Brad Pitt was in with me?”

When I saw the film for the first time, I was blown away by how it captured the speed, sound, and vibrancy of Formula Director Joseph Kosinski, along with producer Jerry Bruckheimer, fully immersed themselves in the sport and did a brilliant job bringing it to life on the big screen. In fact, I think some of the cinematic techniques used in the motion picture could even enhance how we broadcast F1 in future.

Everyone I’ve spoken to has told me how much they’ve loved the film, and I’m delighted it’s become the success we hoped it would be. As the sport continues to grow and trend globally, this kind of mainstream exposure brings in younger and more diverse audiences — people who might never have discovered F1 otherwise.

Jerry Bruckheimer told me about a focus group they ran in California. At the start of the session, only one person raised their hand when asked if they were familiar with Grand Prix racing. But by the end of the film, when asked if they’d be interested in watching a race, every hand went up. That’s the kind of impact this movie can have.

Without giving away any spoilers, I was extremely proud to be asked to appear in character in one of the scenes. Everyone at McLaren — myself included — has been fully behind this production from day one, just as we’ve supported Netflix’s Drive to Survive. These projects are vital to how we connect with fans and grow the sport.

The filmmakers were committed to authenticity — from the real cars and circuits — to showing the personalities of the paddock. I filmed a press conference scene with Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur, and while it resembled the real thing, it was very much a Hollywood production — reshot from 15 different angles. It was great fun to be a part of it.

Brad Pitt, who plays Sonny Hayes, and his co-star Damson Idris drove specially modified Formula 2 cars during filming. I thought it would be a nice idea to invite Brad to experience a real Formula 1 car. So, at the end of June, we got him in one of our McLarens — a two-year-old car — at the Circuit of the Americas in Texas. We teased it on social media with the line: “It’s a Sonny day in Austin.”

Lando Norris was on hand to offer some advice, and I have to say, Brad did a great job. He was understandably a little nervous — as anyone would be — but he took it seriously, asked all the right questions, and really engaged with the team. I think he hit 197mph on the back straight and was slightly frustrated not to crack 200mph. But to be honest, he may well be the first non-professional to drive such a modern F1 car — and that’s quite the achievement.

What I hope is that F1: The Movie opens the door to more films and documentaries about motor racing, because there are so many incredible stories still to be told. There’s a fantastic new feature-length documentary called Hill, about Damon and his father Graham. There’s a great film on Nigel Mansell, and Villeneuve Pironi is another excellent watch. Personally, I’d love to see a proper cinematic feature on the Indianapolis 500.

These productions aren’t just entertainment — they’re crucial touchpoints that help fans get closer to the sport and develop a deeper understanding of its history, personalities and drama. But it’s not just about the big screen. In the build-up to the British Grand Prix, we hosted our own event in central London: McLaren Racing Live. It went far beyond our expectations.

To see a sea of papaya filling Trafalgar Square on a weekday afternoon was incredible. Tens of thousands of fans showed up to see us on stage. Lando, Oscar, and I loved being there — and it was a powerful reminder of just how passionate and engaged the fanbase is, and how much it continues to grow.

Events like these aren’t just feel-good moments — they’re strategically important. They create unforgettable memories, deliver value to our partners and sponsors, and help inspire the next generation of fans. Whether it’s someone who discovered the sport through Drive to Survive, F1: The Movie, or stood in the crowd in London, each one of those touchpoints plays a role in showcasing the brilliance of Formula 1 to the wider world.