Carlos Sainz made a striking appearance at the world premiere of F1 The Movie in New York on Monday night, shortly after a challenging race weekend in Montreal. Meanwhile, his girlfriend Rebecca Donaldson enjoyed a sunny getaway on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, sharing relaxed moments from her vacation far from the Formula 1 spotlight.
Sainz Attends Premier Event Amid Busy Race Season
At the premiere held in Times Square, Carlos Sainz stood alongside fellow drivers such as Williams teammate Alex Albon and Team Principal James Vowles. The film, directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, Brad Pitt, and Lewis Hamilton, dramatizes the comeback story of fictional racer Sonny Hayes and his rookie teammate Joshua Pearce, portrayed by Damson Idris. Filmed during live Formula 1 weekends and produced by Apple Original Films and Warner Bros. Pictures, the movie has received praise within the racing community for its authentic portrayal of the sport.
Speaking on stage in front of a lively New York crowd, Sainz reflected on the film’s potential to attract new fans:
“It’s incredible, especially to see such a young audience here in New York. This will capture so many new fans. I’m just enjoying the moment Formula 1 is going through, but I think there will be a before and after for this film.”
He also shared a humorous moment about sharing the grid with Brad Pitt:
“It felt weird seeing them on the grid. I did a couple of grid walks with Brad (Pitt) by my side, and I was like what are you doing here or what am I doing here? I was next to a movie scene, and he was also next to my driver role.”
Lewis Hamilton and Brad Pitt led the cast, drivers, and team principals down the red carpet, with all the F1 cars arranged in the iconic Times Square. The event marked a glamorous celebration of the sport ahead of the Formula 1 paddock’s next race in Austria on June 26, where Sainz will aim to improve his recent performance.
Rebecca Donaldson Enjoys a Calm Break from Racing Drama
While Sainz was immersed in the F1 festivities at the premiere, Rebecca Donaldson took the opportunity to unwind along Italy’s picturesque Amalfi Coast. The model posted several updates on Instagram showing her relaxing aboard a yacht near Positano, dressed in a navy blue bikini and black sunglasses. She appeared in good spirits, enjoying the sea breeze and sunshine with friends during her holiday.
The stark difference between Donaldson’s tranquil escape and the high-energy atmosphere of New York’s Times Square premiere highlighted the contrasting worlds the couple currently inhabits, with Sainz focused on racing commitments while Donaldson recharges on the coast.
Looking Ahead: New Challenges for Sainz After the Premiere
The F1 community will now turn its attention to the upcoming Austrian Grand Prix, Round 11 of the season, as the paddock moves from North America to Europe. Carlos Sainz’s participation in the world premiere reflects his growing visibility beyond the track, but his focus will soon shift back to competing and regaining momentum in the championship.
With the boost from the film’s premiere and the support of the F1 community, Sainz hopes to channel this energy into his forthcoming races, aiming to build on his experience and showcase his skills in what promises to be an intense part of the season.
