Lewis Hamilton Steps Off the Grid and Into the Director’s Chair as F1 Movie Producer
June 9, 2025 — Monte Carlo, Monaco
As excitement builds for the release of F1, the upcoming Apple Original Films production, one of the most influential figures in Formula 1 history is taking on a new challenge—behind the camera. Lewis Hamilton, seven-time World Champion, is not just lending his name but shaping the very essence of the movie as a producer.
Racing Meets Cinema
Hamilton, whose love for storytelling is as deep-rooted as his passion for motorsport, has been involved with F1 from its early concept stages. Collaborating with acclaimed director Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick) and legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer, Hamilton has helped guide the movie’s vision toward delivering the most authentic racing experience ever seen on screen.
“This film is a combination of the two worlds I’ve always loved—film and racing,” Hamilton shared. “From story development to casting, it’s been an incredible learning journey.”
Real Racetracks, Real Action
The film was shot during actual F1 race weekends, a first in cinematic history. The fictional 11th team in the movie, APXGP, was embedded into real Grand Prix events, allowing Brad Pitt and co-star Damson Idris to drive modified Formula 2 cars on actual circuits. These scenes will be seamlessly integrated with race footage, capturing the chaos, thrill, and emotion of a real F1 weekend.
Hamilton ensured that even the smallest racing details were handled with precision—from the sounds of downshifting to the physical toll drivers face from G-forces and dehydration. “We wanted fans to feel like they’re sitting in the cockpit, gripping the wheel at 200mph,” he said.
Mentoring Hollywood Stars
Hamilton also took on a mentor role for Brad Pitt, who plays veteran driver Sonny Hayes. The two spent time at Silverstone, with Hamilton guiding Pitt through corner approaches and explaining what goes on inside a driver’s mind during high-pressure moments.
“It was important to me that the actors understood what we go through—both physically and mentally,” Hamilton explained. “You can’t fake the experience of driving at that level.”
More Than Just a Movie
Beyond F1, Hamilton has big plans for his production company, Dawn Apollo Films. From animated films to a potential documentary series, Hamilton aims to bring fresh, diverse voices to the big screen.
With F1 set for international release on June 25 and a North American debut on June 27, fans won’t have to wait long to experience what’s being called the most realistic racing film ever made.
Bottom Line:
Lewis Hamilton is no stranger to pushing boundaries, and with F1 the movie, he’s accelerating into new territory. Not just a racing legend, Hamilton is proving he can take the lead off the track—by telling the story of Formula 1 like never before.
