The high-octane world of Formula One racing is set to receive a cinematic tribute with the upcoming film “F1,” directed by Joseph Kosinski and penned by Ehren Kruger. This sports action drama, produced in collaboration with the FIA, the governing body of Formula One, promises to deliver an authentic and thrilling portrayal of the racing world.
F1 2025 Release Date
“F1” is scheduled for a global theatrical release by Warner Bros. Pictures on June 25, 2025, with its U.S. debut following on June 27, 2025. Notably, these dates precede the 2025 Austrian Grand Prix, aligning the film’s release with the peak of the racing season.
F1 2025 Cast
The film boasts a stellar ensemble cast:
- Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes: A former Formula One driver from the 1990s who, after a devastating crash, is drawn back to the racing world.
- Damson Idris as Joshua “Noah” Pearce: A rookie prodigy under Hayes’ mentorship, aiming to make his mark in the high-stakes arena of Formula One.
- Kerry Condon as Kate: A pivotal character whose role intertwines with the central narrative.
- Tobias Menzies as Banning: A figure whose interactions with the protagonists add depth to the storyline.
- Javier Bardem as Ruben: Sonny’s friend and the owner of the Apex Grand Prix team (APXGP), who plays a crucial role in Hayes’ return to the sport.
- Sarah Niles as Bernadette: Noah’s mother, providing a personal dimension to Pearce’s character.
In addition to the main cast, the film features appearances by real-life Formula One drivers, including Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, and Charles Leclerc, adding authenticity to the racing sequences.
Storyline
The narrative centers on Sonny Hayes, a prominent Formula One driver from the 1990s whose career is abruptly halted by a catastrophic crash. Years later, Ruben, a team owner and old friend, persuades Hayes to come out of retirement to mentor the young and talented Joshua Pearce for the Apex Grand Prix team. As Hayes navigates the challenges of re-entering the racing world, he must confront his past while guiding Pearce through the pressures and politics of Formula One racing.
Production Insights
The film is a collaborative effort among several notable production companies, including Apple Original Films, Apple Studios, Jerry Bruckheimer Films, Plan B Entertainment, and Dawn Apollo Films. The production team comprises industry veterans such as Jerry Bruckheimer, Chad Oman, Brad Pitt, Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, Lewis Hamilton, and Joseph Kosinski. Cinematography is helmed by Claudio Miranda, with a musical score composed by Hans Zimmer, marking his second collaboration with Kosinski following “Top Gun: Maverick.”
Principal photography commenced in July 2023 at the Silverstone Circuit in the United Kingdom, coinciding with the 2023 British Grand Prix. Brad Pitt and Damson Idris underwent extensive training, including testing Formula Three and Formula Two cars at the Circuit Paul Ricard in France, to authentically portray their roles. The production also filmed at various iconic circuits worldwide, including the Hungaroring, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, and Monza Circuit, among others.
Budget
The film’s budget is reported to be $300 million, reflecting a significant investment aimed at delivering a high-quality cinematic experience that authentically captures the essence of Formula One racing. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer and director Joseph Kosinski have addressed these figures, noting that rebates and sponsorships have contributed to managing the overall production costs.
Anticipation and Expectations
The release of the first trailer during the 2024 British Grand Prix garnered significant attention, with fans expressing enthusiasm for the film’s realistic portrayal of the racing world. The involvement of real Formula One teams and drivers, coupled with the star-studded cast and experienced production team, has heightened expectations. As the release date approaches, “F1” is poised to be a landmark film that offers an immersive and thrilling depiction of the high-speed world of Formula One racing.
