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'F1: The Movie' director Joseph Kosinski still remembers the most nerve-racking moment on set—the day Brad Pitt took control of a real Formula 1 race car.
The Apple Original Films production centres on Sonny Hayes, a retired Formula 1 driver (played by Pitt) who makes a comeback to help his struggling team. Filming included high-speed sequences during the Las Vegas Grand Prix weekend in November 2024, where Brad Pitt drove on sections of the live circuit.
Joseph Kosinski explained that the Las Vegas shoot was the toughest challenge of the production. The night race, combined with cold weather and limited tyre grip, made the track especially unpredictable. Brad Pitt had no chance to practice beforehand since the circuit only exists for a few days each year.
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Image Courtesy: People
Joseph Kosinski on Brad Pitt's Raching Moment
During a special screening of 'F1: The Movie' at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, Joseph Kosinski shared that he felt anxious watching Pitt drive in those conditions. With temperatures around 57°F—unusually low for 'F1' racing—even seasoned drivers found the course difficult.
The Las Vegas circuit runs directly through the Las Vegas Strip, offering little room for error. Unlike other tracks with wide run-off areas, the street layout forces drivers dangerously close to barriers. For Kosinski, it was the most intense day of filming—one where he could only hope everything went smoothly.
Despite the risks, the director said Brad Pitt handled the car flawlessly. While his character experiences crashes in the movie, the actor himself completed his laps safely and confidently. Kosinski credited Pitt's extensive training, explaining that both he and co-star Damson Idris showed impressive natural driving ability after completing thousands of practice laps.
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Image Courtesy: People
Brad Pitt's Emotional Connection to The Role
The director, best known for 'Top Gun: Maverick,' also recalled Pitt's emotional connection to the role. On the final day of filming, the actor was reluctant to leave the car, so Kosinski allowed him to do a few extra laps as a farewell to the character he had grown to love.
Kosinski emphasised that every precaution was taken to ensure safety, and he never felt the production was taking unnecessary risks. Pitt's dedication and preparation, he added, gave the crew complete confidence on set.
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Image Courtesy: Brad Pitt/ Instagram
As for the future of 'F1,' Kosinski hinted that a sequel could be in discussion. Depending on audience response, he's open to exploring what comes next for Sonny Hayes and where his racing journey might lead.
The Brad Pitt-led racing drama 'F1' will premiere globally on Apple TV+ on 12th December 2025.
