Williams driver Carlos Sainz encouraged Formula 1 fans to approach the new Hollywood F1 movie with an open mind during its world premiere at Times Square on June 16. The film, starring Brad Pitt and produced by Apple, was created over two years using real race locations and weekends to provide an authentic racing atmosphere.
This Hollywood project also includes notable actors such as Kerry Condon, Javier Bardem, and Damson Idris. Directed by Joseph Krasinski, known for Top Gun: Maverick, and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the film benefits from Lewis Hamilton’s involvement as an Executive Producer, bringing a significant F1 legend’s perspective to the production.
Carlos Sainz’s Perspective on the New F1 Movie
At the Times Square premiere, Carlos Sainz spoke candidly to the media about the film’s appeal to both existing F1 fans and newcomers. He emphasized the value it brings to growing interest in the sport, saying on the red carpet:
“There’s something for everyone, for sure. I’ll just say for the pure F1 fan, be open-minded to Hollywood F1 films, but then for all the new fans, that’s our true sport that’s what a sport is all about, teamwork about sacrifices that we need to make and I think for the new fans enjoy it because it’s a good entrance to our sport,”
—Carlos Sainz, Williams F1 Driver
Despite his optimism, many fans expressed skepticism on social media, particularly on the platform X, challenging Sainz’s encouragement. Some reactions revealed a strong dislike of the film, while others humorously noted Carlos Sainz himself as their favorite part of the movie:
“For the F1 fans, be open-minded to Hollywood” he really hated this movie,”
—Anonymous fan
“My fav actor in the F1 movie is Carlos Sainz btw,”
—Anonymous fan
“Good to know I can skip the American c**p,”
—Anonymous fan
Additional fan comments included discouragement to watch the film and appreciation for Carlos’s honesty on the subject:
“Thanks to him, I will not watch this movie then…”
—Anonymous fan
“Took everything in him to not fully s**t on it haha,”
—Anonymous fan
“Thanks for being real with us Carlos,”
—Anonymous fan
Notably, Carlos Sainz, along with other Formula 1 drivers, appeared in some scenes of the film, blending real-world racing figures with the Hollywood depiction.
Insights from Carlos Sainz After Viewing the Film
Following the premiere, Carlos Sainz shared his honest thoughts about the movie during an interview in Monaco with RacingNews365. He admitted that while experienced F1 viewers might spot dramatized Hollywood elements reminiscent of series like Netflix’s productions, the film effectively introduces new audiences to the sport.
“I truly enjoyed it, I think for us F1 experts, we’re going to see things that we sometimes see with Netflix that you can tell are a bit Hollywood-esque. I truly believe that for a new fan, it will attract a lot of new audiences, and it will do very well with people who don’t know anything about Formula 1.”
—Carlos Sainz, Williams F1 Driver
The F1 movie is set for a global release on June 25, followed shortly by the U.S. release on June 27. Expected to be among the summer’s highly anticipated films in 2025, it aims to expand interest in Formula 1 by combining authentic racing elements with Hollywood storytelling.
Anticipated Impact and Future Fan Engagement
Carlos Sainz urges openness to Hollywood F1 movie portrayals as a bridge for attracting new viewers to the sport, acknowledging the balance between entertainment and authenticity. While some fans remain critical of the film’s style, the involvement of prominent figures like Lewis Hamilton and inclusion of actual drivers underscore its connection to the real racing world.
This movie could play a significant role in increasing Formula 1’s audience, especially in markets where the sport is still growing. With its release imminent, reactions may continue evolving as more fans experience the film, influencing how Hollywood’s interpretation of Formula 1 shapes future fan perceptions and engagement.
