Toto Wolff has revealed that Lewis Hamilton straightforwardly informed Brad Pitt that he was deemed “too old” to portray a Formula One driver contending for World Championships on the silver screen. This frank conversation, which left the renowned Hollywood actor unimpressed, led to a script overhaul for the upcoming film project.
Initially, Pitt’s character, Sonny Hayes, a seasoned racer in the F1 movie, was intended to challenge the top-tier drivers for a championship victory. However, in the revised script, he makes a comeback to Grand Prix racing in his 50s, driving for the struggling fictional team APX GP alongside the emerging talent Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris.
This significant change in direction transpired after a gathering with Wolff, Hamilton, and others during the project’s early stages.
Recalling the experience at the Autosport Business Exchange New York, Wolff shared: “At the outset, I had the privilege of meeting various high-profile individuals, but one particular dinner stood out where Joe, the director, Jerry Bruckheimer, Lewis, Brad Pitt, Susie [Wolff], and I were present.”
He continued, “The original concept involved Pitt’s character, Hayes, as a driver vying for a World Championship. However, Lewis pointed out, ‘That won’t work; you’re too old for a Formula One driver.’ Brad was displeased by this feedback, believing he was at the right age to portray a Formula One driver.”
The F1 film, with Hamilton serving as an executive producer, achieved remarkable success, impressing critics, generating excitement among new fans, and setting box office records by becoming the highest-grossing sports movie globally, earning £467 million ($628 million).
The positive reception extended to influential figures within the racing community. Formula 1 enthusiasts now have the opportunity to watch all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and races live through Sky’s new Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle, offering savings of £192 and access to approximately 100 TV channels, along with complimentary subscriptions to Netflix and Discovery+.
Reflecting on the premiere in Monaco during the Grand Prix, Wolff expressed satisfaction, stating, “We, including all F1 drivers and team principals, watched it, and we were impressed. It provided excellent entertainment, and the revenue it generated has been exceptional.”