Max Verstappen chose not to attend the exclusive screening of the highly anticipated Formula 1 movie on Wednesday evening, held just before the Monaco Grand Prix weekend. While the film, starring Brad Pitt, is set for international release on June 25 and in the United States on June 27, Verstappen informed Formula One Management ahead of time that he would not be present, preferring to spend private time and focus on other commitments.
Alongside Verstappen, Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll was also absent from the screening event attended by drivers, team principals, and special guests. Verstappen indicated that although he was not at the screening, he intends to watch the film when it becomes publicly available.
Lewis Hamilton Expresses Nervousness and Eagerness for Genuine Driver Reactions
Seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, who served as a co-producer on the F1 movie, revealed to media that he felt nervous during the screening, eager to see honest feedback from his fellow drivers. Sitting among the attendees, Hamilton was attentive to their reactions and emphasized how much their opinions mattered to him.
“I was like, ‘Oh God, everyone’s seen it for the first time’,”
Hamilton said, reflecting on the moment. He also shared how he encouraged the drivers to offer their candid assessments, knowing there would be moments where the portrayal of racing strategy might not be perfectly timed.
According to Hamilton, the film’s sound and visuals offer an unparalleled cinematic experience in the context of Formula 1. He described the entire project as groundbreaking, particularly because parts of the movie were filmed during real Formula 1 racing action, making it an authentic and immersive portrayal.
“But I think the great thing is, the sound is great, the image is incredible. It’s something that has never been done in Formula 1 before, so something I’m really proud of.” —Lewis Hamilton, World Champion
Hamilton also highlighted the learning experience of collaborating with director Joe Kosinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer, praising the detailed process of developing the screenplay from its initial pages and working to ensure its authenticity in depicting the sport.
“And then get to work with the writer and Joe on trying to make sure it would be as authentic as it was.” —Lewis Hamilton, World Champion
Details About the F1 Movie and Verstappen’s Alternative Plans
The F1 movie, which releases globally within days, explores themes inspired by the sport’s high-risk nature, though it dramatizes elements beyond what is typical in modern Formula 1 racing. Despite his absence from the screening, Verstappen indicated he was aware of the film’s release date and plans to watch it digitally through Apple’s platform.
In place of attending the film event, Verstappen engaged with fans through a Twitch stream under the pseudonym Franz Hermann, a name he previously used during a recent Nürburgring Nordschleife GT track outing with Team Redline.
Verstappen explained his decision to skip the screening, emphasizing the need to retain some privacy during the evening. Though he did not watch the movie at the event, he expressed confidence about the film’s quality based on what he had heard so far.
“I heard good stuff from the movie, so I’m sure that it’s going to be exciting.” —Max Verstappen, Racing Driver
The Screening’s Role Ahead of the Monaco Grand Prix Weekend
The special viewing of the F1 movie marks a significant moment for those involved in Formula 1, blending cinematic storytelling with the real-life intensity of the sport. For Hamilton and other drivers, the event offered an opportunity to engage with a unique project that aims to bring the drama and excitement of F1 to a broader audience.
As the Monaco Grand Prix approaches, anticipation remains high both for the race itself and the film’s release, which promises to highlight the thrills and challenges experienced by drivers on and off the track. Verstappen’s decision to refrain from the initial screening adds an additional layer of intrigue, particularly given his status as a leading figure in the championship battle.
