Brad Pitt’s Formula 1 Debut: Targeting 200 mph in McLaren
Brad Pitt recently participated in a Testing of Previous Cars event at the Circuit of the Americas, marking his formal debut in a Formula 1 vehicle. Behind the wheel of a 2023 McLaren MCL60, Pitt reached a speed of 197 mph, just shy of his goal of 200 mph.
Pitt, who portrays Sonny Hayes in the film F1: The Movie, expressed his eagerness to improve on this initial performance. Speaking on the Beyond the Grid podcast, he stated, “I really wanted to hit 200; it hurts me a little bit. Three miles per hour short on the straight.” The experience, he described, was unlike any other, emphasizing the unique sensation of downforce and speed: “You’re just in this, like, sublime groove. It is really extraordinary.”
The actor, alongside co-star Damson Idris, who plays young racer Joshua Pearce, received guidance from McLaren driver Lando Norris. Though their prior encounters with Formula 1 machinery were limited, Pitt found the transition to a full F1 car to be transformative, noting, “The step up? It’s massive… I want to go back again, and I want to beat the time.”
Overall, Pitt’s adventure highlights the synergy between Hollywood and motorsports, coinciding with the release of F1: The Movie, which aims to deliver an immersive overview of the Formula 1 experience, featuring cameos from various established drivers and 2024 teams. As Pitt reflects on his high-speed experience with gratitude to McLaren’s management, including CEO Zak Brown, the actor’s enthusiasm illustrates the exhilarating allure of Formula 1 racing.
