Toto Wolff has shared how Lewis Hamilton directly informed Brad Pitt that he was too old to play a Formula One driver competing for World Championships in a movie. This frank exchange, which left the renowned actor unimpressed, led to a revision of the film’s script.
Initially, Pitt’s character, Sonny Hayes, was supposed to challenge the top racers in the sport for a title. However, the final script depicts him making a comeback to Grand Prix racing in his 50s, driving for the struggling fictional team APX GP alongside young talent Joshua Pearce, played by Damson Idris.
This significant change in direction was influenced by a gathering involving Wolff, Hamilton, and others during the early stages of the project.
Reflecting on the event at the Autosport Business Exchange in New York, Wolff recounted a surreal experience of dining with key figures, including Joe, the director, Jerry Bruckheimer, Lewis, Brad Pitt, Susie Wolff, and himself.
Wolff explained that the original concept had Pitt’s character competing for a World Championship, but Hamilton’s feedback about the character’s age being unfit for a Formula One driver prompted a reevaluation. Despite initial resistance from Pitt, the script adaptation was well-received for its credibility in portraying his role.
The F1 film, where Hamilton served as an executive producer, achieved resounding success, impressing critics, generating excitement among new fans, and breaking box office records to become the most commercially successful sports movie ever, grossing £467 million ($628 million) worldwide.
The positive feedback extended to influential figures in the racing community. Formula 1 enthusiasts now have the opportunity to watch all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and races live with Sky’s latest Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle, offering a £192 saving.
This package not only includes access to Sky Sports but also provides over 100 TV channels, along with complimentary subscriptions to Netflix and Discovery+.
Wolff expressed satisfaction with the movie’s reception among F1 drivers and team principals at its premiere in Monaco during the grand prix weekend, highlighting the film’s entertainment value and exceptional revenue generation.