Brad Pitt had to prove he could handle the intense speed and pressure before landing his role as a Formula 1 driver in the Apple-backed film. This challenge came directly from none other than Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time F1 world champion, ensuring Pitt was ready for the demands of the sport.
In late 2021, director Joseph Kosinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer met Hamilton at the exclusive San Vicente Bungalows in Los Angeles. Following the success of Top Gun: Maverick, they wanted Hamilton not just as a consultant, but as a creative partner to bring realism and insider knowledge to a sport known for its secrecy.
With Apple financing the project, the filmmakers devised an ambitious plan: Brad Pitt’s fictional team, APXGP, would actually participate on the Formula 1 grid. The crew would travel to authentic races, complete with their own garage and paddock setup, filming on live circuits alongside real teams and even capturing scenes on podiums.
The Crucial Speed Test at Porsche Experience Center
Before filming began, Hamilton needed to confirm Pitt’s ability to handle high-speed driving. In early 2022, the trio met again—Hamilton, Pitt, and Kosinski—at the Porsche Experience Center in Los Angeles. Pitt initially completed fast laps in a Porsche 911 GT3, but Hamilton had an even more intense test in mind.
Hamilton took Pitt on a high-adrenaline ride, pushing through a demanding elevated corner Kosinski described as a “turn of death.” The escape from view, followed by Pitt jumping out sweaty and Hamilton grinning broadly, showed the initiation into the raw and unforgiving essence of Formula 1 racing.
“They disappeared and I only saw a cloud of dust,”
—Joseph Kosinski, Director
“Then they came back, the door opened wide, and Brad jumped out all sweaty, while Lewis had a huge smile on his face.”
—Joseph Kosinski, Director
This moment symbolized more than a thrill—it was a baptism by speed and skill, introducing Pitt to the brutal beauty of Formula 1.
Securing Official F1 Support for the Film
After this intense session, Pitt fully committed to the role. The trio soon traveled to London to present their vision to Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali. To strengthen their pitch, Kosinski hosted a private IMAX screening of Top Gun: Maverick months before its public release, impressing F1’s leadership and earning approval to proceed with the film.
Set to debut on 27 June 2025, the movie promises more than standard racing drama. Its foundation lies in genuine speed, real-world racing dynamics, and Hamilton’s critical role in preparing Pitt for the demanding portrayal of a Formula 1 driver.
