Brad Pitt’s F1 film used real Grand Prix events for on-track scenes

Following its theatrical release internationally on June 25 and in North America on June 27, F1, the motorsport drama starring Brad Pitt, has drawn attention for how it was filmed inside real Formula One race weekends.

Directed by Joseph Kosinski and made in partnership with Formula One Management, the film blends scripted storytelling with footage captured during live events across the sport’s international calendar.

Filming took place at circuits including Silverstone, Spa, Las Vegas, and Abu Dhabi. The production team operated within narrow time slots between official sessions, sometimes as short as ten to fifteen minutes.

Pitt and co-star Damson Idris portrayed drivers from a fictional team called APXGP, which was given space within real paddock areas alongside professional teams.

Both actors underwent performance driving training and filmed scenes in modified Formula Two cars. According to production sources, Pitt reached speeds close to 200 miles per hour during supervised filming at Circuit of the Americas.

To capture cockpit footage, the crew used compact camera systems, including a custom-built unit developed by Apple. The system incorporated the iPhone 15 Pro sensor with proprietary firmware, an A-series chip, and cinema-grade accessories, all mounted in FIA-compliant housings designed for use inside high-speed vehicles. Footage was recorded in Apple’s ProRes Log format, allowing for high dynamic range and professional color grading.

Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton served as co-producer and collaborated with the creative team on race authenticity, character development, and on-track realism.

Now in cinemas, the film has attracted interest for its unconventional production process. The combination of scripted drama with footage shot amid the logistics of a functioning Grand Prix weekend has become a central part of how the film is being received by both motorsport and film audiences.