Carlos Sainz has a word of caution for die-hard Formula 1 fans as he attended the glamorous New York premiere of Brad Pitt’s latest movie, ‘F1 The Movie.’ It’s a reminder that this film, after all, bears the Hollywood stamp.
The red carpet was awash with the who’s who of Formula 1, gathering to celebrate the worldwide premiere of ‘F1 The Movie.’ The evening was filled with excitement, although Max Verstappen notably skipped the event, sharing his choice on Formule1.nl, ‘I’m going home to my daughter. Whether I will watch that film at a later time? Maybe yes. If it suits me or if someone else wants to see it, then I’m fine with it. And maybe I will be positively surprised. I also sincerely hope that it is a good and successful film and that it has a positive effect on Formula 1. You just shouldn’t force me to go somewhere, because that’s not quite how it should be.’
Sainz offered his thoughts to eager reporters. ‘There’s something for everyone for sure. I’ll just say for the pure F1 fans, be open-minded to Hollywood films. For all the new fans, that’s our sport.’ His words hinted at a more entertainment-focused approach to the sport that might not align with the purists’ expectations.
This evening wasn’t just about the film. Sparks flew off-screen as old friends and rivals shared a laugh and a handshake. Sainz and his old Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc enjoyed a warm reunion. Meanwhile, Lando Norris and Lewis Hamilton, who lent his expertise as a producer and consultant, shared a moment, underscoring the collaborative spirit that shaped the film. Hamilton’s involvement was felt deeply, with composer Zimmer stating, ‘Being a European, I was probably more familiar as it was part of our culture. And then, a few years, I met LH and we started talking. And when this movie came about, I was really starting to talk to Hamilton so, you know, I think in a funny sort of what so much of the inspiration and what I was going came from Lewis. I just want to give a credit, it was like he was always sitting beside me when I was writing.’
Brad Pitt, who stars as Sonny Hayes—a former Formula One driver drawn back to the racetrack—praised George Russell not just for his smiles but for their sartorial sync. ‘What a weekend dude, great drive,’ he cheered. Russell’s matching salmon shirt didn’t go unnoticed, as Pitt good-naturedly acknowledged, ‘you texted.’
Yet, amidst the glitz and Hollywood glamour, the core of Formula 1’s thrilling essence remains untouched. Sainz’s caution serves as a reminder that while ‘F1 The Movie’ may take creative liberties, it continues to celebrate the sport’s dramatic and exhilarating spirit, offering a new lens through which to appreciate the high-speed world of Formula 1.
