Hollywood actor Keanu Reeves has expressed his strong desire to drive a Formula 1 car, inspired in part by Brad Pitt’s recent McLaren cameo. Earlier this year, Reeves had the chance to drive a McLaren MCL60 at the Circuit of The Americas, an experience that sparked his enthusiasm for getting behind the wheel of an F1 car himself.
In a conversation with Sky Sports F1 ahead of the British Grand Prix qualifying, Reeves reflected on this budding interest and discussed his involvement in an upcoming documentary about the new Cadillac F1 team.
Keanu Reeves Discusses His Role in the Cadillac F1 Documentary
Reeves is serving as both host and executive producer on the forthcoming series centered on Cadillac’s entry into Formula 1. He shared his excitement about telling the story of the new team’s beginnings from scratch.
First of all, I’m honoured to be having the opportunity to be involved in telling the story and, you know, it’s a new team starting from the ground up!
—Keanu Reeves, Actor and Executive Producer
It’s Cadillac, it’s Formula 1. And so to have the opportunity to be part of telling the story is just super exciting.
—Keanu Reeves, Actor and Executive Producer
This project follows Reeves’s acclaimed narration of the 2023 documentary Brawn: The Impossible Formula 1 Story, which narrated the journey to Jenson Button’s 2009 championship with Brawn GP. His voice helped bring the dramatic underdog story to life for viewers worldwide.
Impressed by Brad Pitt’s Driving, Reeves Eyes F1 Simulator First
Reeves crediting Brad Pitt’s appearance behind the wheel of the McLaren MCL60 as a motivator, revealed he would first like to try F1 driving on a simulator before stepping into a real car. During an interview with Sky Sports’ Simon Lazenby, Reeves admitted his cautious approach to this dream.
I would like to start on a simulator and just see if I can get it going. And then if that could work, then I’ll get in the car.
—Keanu Reeves, Actor
He also shared a lighthearted moment about feeling nervous when he initially sat in Jenson Button’s championship-winning Brawn GP car.
I was, I was! It was your car – I’m not gonna like… sit in your car!
—Keanu Reeves, Actor
Despite the hesitation, he ended up being reluctant to leave the cockpit once he settled into the experience.
Reeves Prefers Storytelling Over Racing Career
Despite fans speculating about Reeves possibly participating in a sequel to the successful F1 movie, he has maintained that his passion lies in being a fan and storyteller rather than pursuing racing professionally.
No, not at all! I’m just happy to be a fan. I’m here to hang out and try to be a storyteller.
—Keanu Reeves, Actor
Motorsport Enthusiast Praises the 2025 F1 Season
A passionate petrolhead, Reeves co-owns the motorcycle company ARCH and closely follows motorsport developments. Speaking on the 2025 Formula 1 season, he praised the dynamic competition and fresh talent emerging within the sport.
I think it’s been a really amazing season. The way it started, how it’s been developing – the racing, Hamilton in red… so many new kids coming up. Lots of intrigue,
—Keanu Reeves, Actor
I think it’s really, just, what’s going to happen? I mean, I know we got the leaders, but still that McLaren thing – what’s gonna happen there? It’s great!
—Keanu Reeves, Actor
Reeves’s enthusiasm reflects the growing excitement surrounding the evolving 2025 championship battle, highlighting how both established champions and rising stars contribute to a gripping season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is number 13 banned in F1?
A. Yes, the number 13 can be used. Pastor Maldonado actually chose #13 when the fixed numbering system started in 2014. While some cultures think 13 brings bad luck, Formula 1 lets drivers pick their own numbers.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British race car driver in Formula One. He currently races for Mercedes and has previously raced for McLaren. He openly talks about having ADHD and explores his various interests and hobbies.
Q. Why is 17 not allowed in F1?
A. After Jules Bianchi’s death, the number 17 is no longer used in his honor, as it was his number in F1. If a driver does not select a permanent number, they will be given one based on their team’s past entries.
Q. What F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British Formula One racing driver. He currently races for Mercedes but has also driven for McLaren. Hamilton openly talks about his experiences with ADHD and shares his various interests and passions.