Brad Pitt has described driving a Formula One car as an “extraordinary” experience, as F1: The Movie debuts in cinemas across the UK. The Hollywood actor, 61, who stars as fictional driver Sonny Hayes, was recently given the opportunity to drive McLaren’s 2023 F1 car at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin, Texas. Although Pitt gained considerable on-track experience filming over the past two years — primarily in modified Formula Two cars — he said his first time behind the wheel of a real F1 vehicle left him stunned.
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Sharing his reaction on McLaren’s social media, Pitt exclaimed, “Oh my God, what a rush,” adding it was “a lot bigger horse than I’ve been on.” Speaking on the Beyond the Grid podcast, he revealed: “I got to hit 197mph this week. I really wanted to hit 200. It hurts me a little – three miles per hour short on the straight.” Describing the experience, he likened the sensation to flying an aerobatic plane, yet claimed nothing quite compares to the feeling of F1 downforce. “You’re in this sublime groove… I’m still on a high, I really am,” he said.
The film follows the story of Pitt’s character and his rookie team-mate Joshua Pearce, portrayed by British actor Damson Idris. Production has spanned multiple Grands Prix over the last two seasons, with Formula One organisers hoping it will replicate the success of Drive to Survive in attracting a wider audience — particularly in the United States. The movie, directed by Joseph Kosinski and co-produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, has been heavily anticipated by racing fans and filmgoers alike.
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Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who serves as an executive producer, shared behind-the-scenes moments from the early days of filming. Posting on Instagram, Hamilton wrote: “Four years in the making — what a journey it’s been. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone at Apple and Warner Bros for believing in us… To Joe and Jerry — thank you. It’s been an honour.” He also shared a photo of Pitt at Silverstone, reminiscing about their first day on track together. The film will be released in the United States this Friday.
