Brad Pitt recently took the wheel of Lando Norris’ McLaren 2023 MCL60 Formula 1 car during a rare test session at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin, Texas, just days before the global release of the Apple-backed film F1: The Movie. This event offered a unique glimpse into Pitt’s transition from portraying a fictional racer on screen to experiencing the real demands of driving an F1 car.
Under the guidance of McLaren CEO Zak Brown and with Lando Norris personally coaching him, Pitt moved beyond staged filming and engaged in an authentic test run, showcasing his evolving driving skills in one of the world’s most challenging race cars.
The Intense Experience of Driving a Real F1 Car at COTA
The Circuit of the Americas spans 5.5 kilometers and features a challenging mix of high-speed corners, rapid elevation changes, and technical braking zones that test even professional drivers. The uphill Turn 1, which rises nearly 20 meters, is followed by high-speed esses between Turns 2 and 6 that subject drivers to forces up to 3 G. Turn 8 is notoriously tight, while Turns 12 and 13 require precise control at low speeds.
For Norris, the main challenge Pitt faced was adapting to the actual grip levels produced by the MCL60’s advanced aerodynamics. This is critical for pushing the car to its limits consistently across different sections of the track, particularly in medium and high-speed corners.
“Everyone’s perception of when they’re in the car is different. I think he’ll get flat nice and early and he’ll give it some, but then he’s trying to find the consistency and push it from there. See what gives him the confidence to push it more in the medium and high speed corners. I mean, it still blows my mind and I’ve done it now for years,” Lando Norris added via F1.
Pitt, who had been driving modified Formula 2 cars for the movie filming, experienced a striking contrast when piloting the MCL60. The car’s stunning aerodynamic grip and speed presented a fresh challenge entirely unlike the staged car sequences in the film.
Behind the Scenes: Norris Guides Pitt in McLaren’s F1 Machine
Before jumping into the F1 car, Norris prepared Pitt with a warm-up session around the track in a McLaren 750S, demonstrating crucial driving techniques such as gear changes and throttle control. Pitt then shared a passenger ride with former F1 driver and commentator Martin Brundle via Sky F1, who reciprocated with a brief driving stint behind the wheel.
Throughout Pitt’s first real drive, McLaren’s engineers provided close radio instructions on vital points like startup procedures, braking technique, and steering input, helping Pitt navigate the complex car systems and intense physical demands of an F1 car.
“It’s my car so don’t crash. It’s always the best word of advice. I have faith in you guys. I definitely have faith in you (points to brundle) (points to pitt) we’re working on it… enjoy it. you can probably push it more than you think, I think like you’ll always be a bit afraid of can I do it or not. Just give it some. If it breaks, all these guys here they’ll fix it.” (5:17 onwards)
“I have full confidence he can go out and drive, but it depends how quickly he wants to push it. That’s the real question.” (1:03 onwards)
Brad Pitt Reflects on the Thrill and Challenge of F1 Driving
In an interview on the Beyond the Grid podcast, Pitt shared his perspective on the physical and mental intensity of piloting an F1 car. He revealed how reaching a top speed of 197 mph gave him an exhilarating sense of focus and presence unlike anything else he’d experienced.
“I got to hit 197 (mph) this week. I really wanted to hit (200). It like hurts me a little bit to (be) 3 mph short on the straight, this was at Austin. But that’s actually the time you get to rest, funny enough. That’s the time you get to like catch your breath… I’ve just never experienced anything that gives more feeling of presence in my life. You’re so focused,” Pitt said on the Beyond the Grid podcast.
Pitt described the sensation as more akin to aerobatics than motorsport racing, emphasizing the intense concentration required and the unique physical connection between driver and car. This rare insight deepens the appreciation for the skill and precision of real Formula 1 drivers.
The Film’s Success Amplifies Interest in Real Racing Skills
F1: The Movie, directed by Joseph Kosinski and supported by seven-time F1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, has become Apple Studios’ most successful theatrical release to date. With box office earnings surpassing $293 million worldwide, it has outperformed high-profile titles including Killers of the Flower Moon and Napoleon, despite its substantial $250 million budget.
This remarkable success has generated significant attention around both the film and the authentic F1 experiences behind it, such as Brad Pitt’s immersion and challenge driving Norris’ McLaren MCL60.
As the film continues to attract new fans, moments like Pitt’s test session at COTA underline the blend of Hollywood drama and real-world racing passion, opening fresh conversations about the limits actors like Pitt can push within the demanding world of Formula 1.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lando Norris’ father a billionaire?
A. Lando’s dad, Adam, has more than £200 million in wealth. This financial support helped Lando climb through motorsport levels to reach Formula 1.
Q. Lando Norris’s father Adam is a multimillionaire who made is on to the Sunday Times Rich List. His wealth has allowed Lando to progress through the lower motorsport categories and make it in to Formula 1. But how did Lando’s father make his money?
A. Lando Norris’ father is very wealthy, but he is not a billionaire. His dad, Adam Norris, earned his money in the pension industry.