Damson Idris has officially expanded his involvement with Formula 1 by becoming a global ambassador for the prestigious racing league. This new role, announced in 2024, positions Idris as a key figure in bridging Formula 1 with broader cultural and entertainment audiences, enhancing the sport’s global appeal.
Details of Idris’ Role and Ambassadorship Activities
The actor, who co-starred with Brad Pitt in the Oscar-nominated blockbuster F1: The Movie, will actively participate in several grand prix events and undertake various content creation, partner relations, and promotional efforts on behalf of Formula 1. According to the sport’s management, Idris will help connect the racing world with a wider audience in culture and entertainment. His involvement is expected to elevate the presence of Formula 1 in lifestyle and media sectors.
I’ve always been drawn to spaces where culture, performance and precision meet, and Formula 1 sits right at the center of that,
said Idris.
I had an enormous amount of respect for it before making the film, but getting closer to it gave me a real understanding of the innovation, the heart and the intensity behind everything, and the elite level the drivers operate at. I’m genuinely excited to step into this role as a global ambassador. Being part of this world now means a lot to me and I’m proud to represent something that inspires and connects people all over the world.
Formula 1 Leadership Welcomes Idris to the Team
Formula 1’s president and CEO, Stefano Domenicali, expressed enthusiasm about Idris’ deepening ties to the league. He highlighted the shared values of passion and authenticity between Idris and Formula 1, emphasizing how the actor’s influence in entertainment and lifestyle sectors can help grow the sport’s fanbase.
In Formula 1, we are all about authenticity and Damson is passionate about the sport and shares our vision to grow it, so it’s fantastic that we’ll continue to work with him. With his incredible platform and position in the entertainment and lifestyle space, together we will push the boundaries of how we reach fans.
?Stefano Domenicali, CEO and President of Formula 1
Background of the Partnership and Previous Involvement
Idris’ relationship with Formula 1 began through his role as Joshua Pearce, a young F1 driver, in Joseph Kosinski’s film alongside Brad Pitt’s character Sonny Hayes. His thorough training for the film set the foundation for a lasting connection with the sport. Since then, Idris has appeared at race weekends and promoted the film’s synergy with Formula 1 culture, including making a style statement with an F1-inspired outfit at the 2023 Met Gala.
Current Context: F1’s Rising Popularity and Apple TV Collaboration
The timing of Idris’ ambassadorship announcement coincides with a booming period for both the film and Formula 1. F1: The Movie has become the highest-grossing sports film ever, marking a career peak for Brad Pitt and a major success for Apple TV, which is now the exclusive broadcasting partner for Formula 1 races in the United States.
At Apple TV’s recent press event in Santa Monica, both Domenicali and Apple’s Eddy Cue discussed the partnership’s future. When asked about a potential sequel to the movie, Cue highlighted the enthusiasm surrounding the franchise.
I got one last question that they asked,
Cue remarked,
It’s my favorite question of all, and it’s kind of a boomerang because both of us will answer: Is there going to be another Formula 1 movie given the success and how great the first movie was.
Domenicali added a cautious yet optimistic note:
We’re going to tell you something more in the future. Never say never. But we need to digest more the success of this movie because it was something unique. And if you want to think of a new one, it has to be really, very, very good. Therefore, if this will happen, it will not be for next year. But maybe next year we’re going to be here [at the press day], and hopefully we have something more to announce [then].
?Stefano Domenicali, CEO and President of Formula 1
Meanwhile, Eddy Cue also noted the compelling drama of the upcoming F1 season, saying:
I’ve got a great announcement for it. We’ve got 24 F1 movies this year on Apple TV,
referring to each race as an unscripted story.
I don’t know the ending, and so it is the best unscripted drama that there could be in the world.
?Eddy Cue, Apple Executive
Idris’ Upcoming Projects and Continued Career Momentum
Alongside his growing role with Formula 1, Damson Idris has recently finished filming Children of Blood and Bone for Paramount, directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, with a release slated for January 2027. Additionally, he will portray legendary musician Miles Davis in Bill Pohlad’s upcoming project Miles & Juliette, which explores the romance between Davis and Juliette Gréco, played by Anamaria Vartolomei.
Growing Influence Across Sports, Entertainment, and Culture
Damson Idris’ appointment as a global ambassador for Formula 1 reflects the sport’s expanding focus on reaching new audiences through cultural and entertainment channels. His unique position, combining acting acclaim and firsthand experience with the racing world, enables Formula 1 to deepen its connection with fans beyond traditional racing enthusiasts. As Formula 1 continues to grow in the U.S. and globally, Idris’ role is likely to enhance fan engagement and contribute to the sport’s evolving narrative in the entertainment sphere.
