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Lewis Hamilton was praised for his crucial role in making the upcoming Formula 1 film, starring Brad Pitt and due for release in June 2025, as realistic as possible. The seven-time Formula 1 world champion, also a co-producer and technical consultant, brought considerable input into the movie to ensure that it reflected realities in the world of racing.
The film, from director Joseph Kosinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer, follows the story of Sonny Hayes, a retired driver who returns to mentor a young talent, Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris. Hamilton was able to draw on his experience to work closely with the production team and give them insight into some of the intricacies of racing. His attention to detail ensured the film was true to the sport-from the sound of the engines to the strategy of racing. “He keeps us honest,” Bruckheimer said, underscoring Hamilton’s role in fine-tuning technical aspects like gear shifts and driver fitness.
Hamilton’s contribution went beyond the technical aspects; he shared personal experiences and superstitions of F1 drivers, which helped to build the characters in the movie. Other drivers were also consulted during the production of the film, adding to the authenticity of the movie. Brad Pitt and Idris were thoroughly trained for realism in the film, having practice sessions in Formula 3 and Formula 2 cars, and footage was shot during actual Grand Prix weekends.
Apple’s Eddy Cue underlined how Hamilton was hands-on to the tee: everything from engine sounds to race dynamics that were wrong, he fixed. Production intends to wow audiences not only with action-packed scenes of racing but also with deep emotional character portrayals of how drivers take up extreme physical and mental challenges.
Slated to be released internationally on June 25, 2025, and on June 27 in the U.S., the movie has already generated excitement through on-track filming and online leaks. While a theatrical debut is planned, the film is expected to transition to streaming platforms, leveraging its global appeal to expand F1’s fan base, particularly in the U.S. market.
With Hamilton bringing the bridge between cinematic storytelling and real racing authenticity, this film will connect with both F1 enthusiasts and new fans.
