Is F1 the Movie Based on a True Story?
F1 the Movie is not a direct retelling of a real-life Formula 1 driver’s journey, but it draws heavy inspiration from actual F1 history and events. The central character, Sonny Hayes (played by Brad Pitt), is a fictional creation. However, his arc, once a prodigy, then sidelined by a devastating crash in the 1990s, and returning decades later for redemption, mirrors real-life tragedies and comebacks in the sport.
A pivotal crash in the film is directly inspired by the real-life accident of British driver Martin Donnelly at the 1990 Spanish Grand Prix. Donnelly’s horrific crash ended his F1 career, but in the movie, Hayes survives and returns to the grid, a Hollywood twist on a real tragedy.
When Does F1 the Movie Come Out on Apple TV+?
As an Apple Original, it will stream exclusively on Apple TV+, but the streaming release date has not been officially confirmed by Apple yet. Based on recent Apple Original Films, the streaming window is typically 70–100 days after theatrical release. This means you can expect F1: The Movie to hit Apple TV+ in late August or early fall 2025. The film premiered in theaters worldwide on June 27, 2025.
Is Sonny Hayes a Real F1 Driver?
No, Sonny Hayes is not a real Formula 1 driver. The character was created for the film, but his story is a composite of several real-life F1 legends and incidents. His fictional career trajectory—rising star, career-ending crash, and a dramatic comeback—draws parallels to drivers like Martin Donnelly and echoes the drama of F1’s most memorable moments.
“Hayes is a veteran racer who returns to F1 to join an underdog team owned by his friend, Ruben… Pitt’s character isn’t real, but there is a part of his story that is based on another driver.”
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Is Max Verstappen in F1: The Movie?
Yes, Max Verstappen appears in the film, but only in racing scenes. The reigning world champion did not film any scripted scenes with Brad Pitt, reportedly declining a nightclub scene with the actor. Verstappen also skipped the film’s private screening and premiere but can be seen in on-track sequences, racing against the movie’s fictional team. Other real F1 drivers and teams make cameo appearances, adding to the film’s realism.
What Is the Movie’s Duration?
F1: The Movie has a runtime of 2 hours and 35 minutes (155 minutes), making it one of the longer racing films in recent years.
How Was F1: The Movie Filmed?
The movie was filmed during actual Grand Prix weekends in 2023 and 2024, with Brad Pitt and Damson Idris driving real, modified Formula 2 cars on F1 circuits. Director Joseph Kosinski, known for Top Gun: Maverick, developed a new camera system—building on his experience with aerial action—to capture the visceral speed and intensity of F1 racing. Mercedes AMG engineers helped design the camera cars, ensuring the action sequences are as authentic as possible.
What Year Is F1: The Movie Set In?
F1: The Movie is set during the 2023 Formula 1 season. The film follows Brad Pitt’s character, Sonny Hayes, as he returns to the F1 grid with the fictional APXGP team, competing alongside and against real-life teams and drivers.
The story unfolds across the final nine Grands Prix of the 2023 season, with many racing scenes filmed at actual F1 circuits during the real 2023 and 2024 championships. This integration of real-world locations and events gives the movie its authentic F1 atmosphere, placing its narrative firmly in the 2023 racing calendar.
Fans' Reactions on Social Media Buzz
@CinemaTweets1 shared a tweet about F1: The Movie is a damn good summer blockbuster. The race scenes? Electric. Joseph Kosinski puts you in the driver’s seat with unreal sound design (shoutout Hans Zimmer), stunning visuals, and raw, real filmmaking. From in-car shots to sweeping track views—it’s cinematic adrenaline. The story’s mid, sure, but the direction and Brad Pitt’s performance more than make up for it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Is F1: The Movie based on a true story?
No, but it is inspired by real F1 events and personalities, with input from Lewis Hamilton and based in part on Martin Donnelly’s 1990 crash.
When will F1: The Movie be available to stream on Apple TV+?
Expected around late September to October 2025, after its theatrical and PVOD windows.
Is Sonny Hayes a real F1 driver?
No, he is a fictional character, though his story is inspired by real F1 events.
