In a unique blend of cinema and sport, Academy Award-winning actor Brad Pitt took to the track at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Texas, getting behind the wheel of a genuine Formula 1 car as part of a special McLaren-hosted session.
Pitt, who stars in the newly released F1-themed blockbuster “F1: The Movie,” drove McLaren’s 2023-spec MCL60 under the guidance of Sky Sports F1 analyst and former F1 driver Martin Brundle. Current McLaren driver Lando Norris was also on hand to brief both men ahead of their runs.
While Pitt has spent considerable time driving modified cars during filming, this marked his first experience piloting a real Formula 1 vehicle used in competition. The MCL60 was previously raced in the 2023 season by Norris and teammate Oscar Piastri.
Brundle, who last raced for McLaren during his own driving career, praised Pitt’s attitude and attention to detail. “Brad showed serious intent,” Brundle said. “He was calm, eager to learn, and even joined technical debriefs afterward. It was a day I’ll never forget.”
Zak Brown, CEO of McLaren Racing, also commended both Pitt and Brundle, describing the experience as a valuable and exciting moment for the team. “Brad came in fully prepared and asked the right questions. It wasn’t just for show—he really wanted to understand how the car works.”
The track session comes on the heels of the theatrical release of Pitt’s Formula 1 film, which has already surpassed $290 million in global box office sales. The project, co-produced by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, aims to portray the sport with a high level of realism.
Hamilton, speaking on the film’s success and possible future, emphasized that there are no immediate plans for a sequel. “It took us four years to develop the first film,” Hamilton noted. “We’ll take our time to analyze what we achieved before considering a follow-up.”
He also highlighted Pitt’s dedication throughout the process. “Brad gave everything. His passion for this project was evident from day one. We couldn’t have done it without him.”
As Pitt continues to blur the lines between the silver screen and the racing circuit, his time in McLaren’s MCL60 adds a new layer of authenticity to a film that has already captivated both fans of motorsport and moviegoers alike.
