Formula 1 has unveiled onboard footage showing Brad Pitt driving McLaren’s 2023 MCL60 car at the Austin Grand Prix circuit. Although cautious in handling the vehicle, Pitt demonstrated clear control and enthusiasm during his lap, revealing a genuine passion for the sport.
Following the worldwide success of the F1 film, which grossed over $300 million, Pitt’s hands-on experience with the McLaren added an immersive dimension to his involvement with Formula 1. Reports indicate Apple is pursuing U.S. media rights to stream the accompanying series, further boosting interest in the racing world.
Impressions and insights from Pitt’s debut lap
On the Beyond the Grid podcast, Brad Pitt reflected on his speed, stating,
“I got to hit 197mph this week. I really wanted to hit 200. You know, it hurts me a little bit – three miles per hour short on the straight. This was at Austin,”
His first-hand experience was captured not only on video but also through radio communications, where his excitement surfaced as he navigated the circuit. Before starting his lap, he said with calm focus,
“You let me know if I’m going too slow,”
indicating both confidence and a desire to learn quickly.
McLaren Racing CEO praises Pitt’s dedication
Zak Brown, McLaren Racing’s CEO, expressed admiration for Brad Pitt’s performance during the test. Speaking to Sky Sports F1, Brown described the actor as impressive and serious about the experience:
“[Martin] Brundle had him covered, but I’ll tell you what, Brad was impressive,”
“He took it very seriously. He wanted to see his data, thoroughly enjoyed it.”
The unique thrill of driving an F1 car
Brad Pitt shared profound reflections on the sensation of driving the Formula 1 car, describing it as an unparalleled feeling of presence and flow. He remarked on the intense focus required, but contrasted it with a smooth, almost sublime rhythm on the track.
Attempting to explain the effect of downforce, Pitt compared it to, but distinguished it from, experiences like riding a rollercoaster or flying in an aerobatic plane, emphasizing how unique and exhilarating the experience truly was.
He said,
“I’ve just never experienced anything that’s just, more feeling of presence in my life. You’re so focused, but you’re not white knuckling. You’re just in this sublime groove. It is really extraordinary.”
He added,
“I try to explain this feeling of downforce, and I fail every time because you try to say like a rollercoaster, but that’s not even right, because you feel the fulcrum point underneath you – you’re in it.”
and further said,
“I was in an aerobatic plane once, and it’s the closest thing, but still this thing. This is such a unique feeling and an absolute high. I’m still on a high, I really am. I’m just still on a high.”
Pitt extends thanks to McLaren team and Lando Norris
Before concluding, Brad Pitt expressed heartfelt gratitude to the McLaren team and driver Lando Norris for the unforgettable day on track. He captured his excitement by saying,
“And I can’t thank Zak Brown and the team [enough]. I spent the day out with Lando [Norris] – just what a high, what a high.”
Significance of Pitt’s experience for Formula 1 and the film industry
Brad Pitt’s first McLaren F1 test brings a fresh wave of attention to Formula 1 from the film industry and fans worldwide. His hands-on engagement bridges the gap between Hollywood and motor racing, further fueling excitement for the sport’s growing popularity in the United States and beyond. As streaming rights negotiations and media coverage increase, this cross-industry connection is poised to widen the sport’s audience and inspire new fans eager to experience the thrill of F1 racing. Pitt’s enthusiasm also highlights the authentic appeal and challenge of driving these incredible machines firsthand, promising more collaborations and public interest ahead.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is 17 banned in F1?
A. Number 17 is the sole racing number in Formula 1 that has been permanently retired. This honors Jules Bianchi, a French driver. Bianchi had number 17 on his car when he had a terrible accident at the 2014 Japanese Grand Prix.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton, born in 1985, is a British Formula One driver who races for Mercedes and has raced for McLaren. He openly shares his experiences with ADHD while exploring his various interests and hobbies.
Q. Is number 69 allowed in F1?
A. Drivers can pick their own permanent numbers between 0 and 99, except for 1. Only the World Champion can use number 1, but it’s their choice to use it or not.
Q. What F1 drivers have ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton is a British race car driver born in 1985. He is currently racing in Formula One for the Mercedes team and has previously driven for McLaren. Hamilton openly talks about his experiences with ADHD and shares his wide range of interests and hobbies.