Last updated: 20/12/2025

F1 (marketed as F1 The Movie) is a 2025 American sports drama film set in the world of Formula 1 racing. Directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for Top Gun: Maverick, the film stars Brad Pitt as a former Formula 1 driver returning to the sport to help an underdog team. With high-octane racing sequences, a star-studded cast, and real-world F1 cameos, F1 became one of the standout films of the year.

Plot Summary

The movie follows Sonny Hayes (played by Brad Pitt), a retired Formula 1 driver who left the sport after a crash ended his career. Years later, he is drawn back into racing to help save his former teammate’s struggling team, APXGP, and mentor a talented young driver. The story blends intense racing action with personal drama, exploring themes of redemption, teamwork, and the evolving world of elite motorsport.

Cast and Key Crew

F1 features a mix of Hollywood stars and seasoned actors, along with credited appearances from real F1 figures in cameo roles. The principal cast includes:

• Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes
• Damson Idris as Joshua Pearce
• Javier Bardem – role details listed as Ruben Cervantes
• Kerry Condon
• Tobias Menzies
• Sarah Niles and others rounded out the supporting roles.

In addition to the main stars, the film’s full cast and crew include real Formula 1 personalities such as Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso, Max Verstappen, and Carlos Sainz and many others are appearing in cameo or supporting capacities, bringing authenticity to the racing environment.

• Director: Joseph Kosinski
• Screenplay: Ehren Kruger
• Producers: Jerry Bruckheimer, Lewis Hamilton, Brad Pitt, and others
• Music: Hans Zimmer

Production and Budget

F1 The Movie was produced by Apple Studios, Jerry Bruckheimer Films, Plan B Entertainment, and others. The reported production budget is estimated between $200 million and $300 million. While some industry sources initially suggested a figure closer to $300 million, studio producers and the director acknowledged figures nearer to $200 million when accounting for rebates and sponsorship deals.

This places F1 among the most expensive films ever made, on par with other high-profile racing and action projects.

Release Dates

• World Premiere: June 16, 2025, at Radio City Music Hall, New York City.
• International Theatrical IMAX Release: June 25, 2025.
• Wide U.S. Theatrical Release: June 27, 2025 (handled by Warner Bros. Pictures and Apple Original Films).

The film also had notable premieres and promotional screenings tied into real Formula 1 events, blending its launch with the sport’s global fanbase.

After its theatrical run, the movie was released on digital platforms on August 22, 2025, and on DVD, Blu-ray, and Ultra HD Blu-ray on October 7, 2025. 

Box Office Performance

F1 The Movie was a major commercial success.

• Worldwide Box Office Gross: Approximately $631.5 million.
• Domestic (U.S.) Box Office: ~$189.5 million.
• International Box Office: ~$441.9 million.
• Opening weekend drew around $57 million globally.

The film became the highest-grossing release for Apple Studios, the highest-grossing auto racing film in history, and the biggest box office hit of Brad Pitt’s career. It also ranked among the top global releases of 2025.

Streaming and Where to Watch

After its theatrical success, F1: The Movie moved to streaming platforms:

• The film began streaming on Apple TV+ in December 2025, where it quickly topped charts in nearly 100 countries.
• It is not available on Netflix or other major non-Apple platforms due to exclusivity tied to Apple’s production and distribution rights.

Apple TV+ subscribers can now watch the film as part of the service’s offering, which often requires a subscription starting at around $9.99 per month after any trial period.

Critical Reception and Impact

F1 received positive reviews from critics, with praise often focused on its thrilling racing sequences, character dynamics, and the authenticity brought by its cast and real-world Formula 1 elements. It earned a strong audience response and solid critical scores, reflecting a broad appeal beyond just motorsport fans.

The movie’s success also fuelled discussions about its cultural impact, with analysts noting increased interest in Formula 1 globally following its release and streaming debut.

Conclusion

F1: The Movie has made a significant mark on both cinema and motorsport culture. With a blockbuster budget, A-list cast, and unprecedented box office performance for a racing film, it has set new standards for sports dramas and film adaptations of high-speed competition. Its availability on Apple TV+ ensures it will continue reaching audiences, extending its impact long after its theatrical run.

FAQ: F1: The Movie

Who stars in F1 The Movie?

• The film stars Brad Pitt, Damson Idris, Javier Bardem, Kerry Condon, and Tobias Menzies, among others.

When was F1: The Movie released?

• It premiered on June 16, 2025, with a wide theatrical release on June 27, 2025.

How much did F1: The Movie gross worldwide?

• It grossed around $631.5 million globally.

What was the budget of F1 The Movie?

• The reported budget was between $200 million and $300 million.

Where can you stream F1: The Movie?

• It is available on Apple TV+ as of December 2025.