Brad Pitt Reveals Intense Training for Formula 1 Movie

F1 star Brad Pitt gave details about the extensive training he and co-star Damson Idris underwent to prepare for the sports drama. Directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick), F1 revolves around a retired racer (Pitt) as he becomes the mentor of a promising new talent (Idris).

Brad Pitt and Damson Idris drove cars for 6,000 miles to prepare for F1

Pitt revealed during a recent interview with Variety that he and Idris “drove 6,000 miles” while training for F1. While speaking to the outlet at the June 16 premiere for the feature in New York, Pitt said, “We ended up driving for about two years. I was told that we drove 6,000 miles in total in these cars. So, I’m kinda proud of that.”

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton joined the project quite early and is one of its producers. He and other people associated with the movie reportedly ensured its authenticity. Further, Idris noted how “exhilarating” it was every time he got behind the wheel. “Every time I was behind that wheel, it was the most exhilarating feeling in the world,” he explained. “And the fact that we got to follow the real Grand Prix and be around all the drivers — I got to watch them, and I got to really see how they immerse themselves in the world — and they were so welcoming,” he added.

Reportedly, before the start of the production, Pitt and Idris’ training regimen included testing Formula 2 and Formula 3 cars at France’s Circuit Paul Ricard. A car that Pitt drives in the movie wasn’t necessarily an F1 model, but a modified Formula 2 or Formula 3 vehicle. Filming took place in some of the most prominent racing tracks in the world, including Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium, Monza Circuit in Italy, and Las Vegas Strip Circuit in Nevada.

F1 releases in U.S. theaters on June 27, 2025.