F1: Brad Pitt’s film shoot hits the finish line in Abu Dhabi
Apple’s motorsport blockbuster blends cinematic drama with real Grand Prix action
ABU DHABI: Apple Original Films’ highly anticipated movie F1, starring Brad Pitt, has officially wrapped production at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Filmed during the 2024 Formula 1 season’s thrilling finale, the production brought cinematic action to the Yas Marina Circuit, Zayed International Airport, and twofour54 Studios at Yas Creative Hub.
The film, directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick), will be released globally in cinemas and IMAX® starting 25 June 2025. Distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures, F1 features an ensemble cast including Damson Idris, Javier Bardem, Kerry Condon, and Tobias Menzies.
On and off the track action
F1 immerses viewers in the electrifying world of Formula 1, following the story of a former driver, portrayed by Pitt, making his comeback alongside teammate Damson Idris as part of the fictional APXGP team. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of Formula 1’s high-speed drama, filmed during actual Grand Prix events.
With involvement from Formula 1 Management, the FIA, and all 10 teams on the grid, F1 is set to deliver authentic racing experiences. Seven-time world champion Sir Lewis Hamilton contributes as a producer under his Dawn Apollo Films banner.
Local talent shines in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, the capital of United Arab Emirates (UAE) played host to 29 days of production, with the Creative Media Authority and Abu Dhabi Film Commission offering extensive support. The local crew of 284 professionals and 15 young interns, including five Emirati trainees, collaborated with the international team. This partnership highlights Abu Dhabi’s commitment to fostering local talent and creating a global hub for filmmaking.
Mohamed Dobay, Acting Director General of the Creative Media Authority, praised the collaboration: “Our collective efforts and wise leadership continue to attract leading production teams like Apple Original Films. F1 marks an exciting milestone for Abu Dhabi’s film industry.”
F1: A global motorsport epic
Directed by Kosinski and produced alongside Hollywood powerhouses Jerry Bruckheimer and Plan B Entertainment, F1 is set to captivate audiences with its mix of thrilling racing sequences and human drama. The screenplay, written by Ehren Kruger (Top Gun: Maverick), promises an engaging narrative supported by Formula 1’s unparalleled access.
This blockbuster is among 170 productions benefitting from Abu Dhabi’s rebate scheme since 2013. Sameer Al Jaberi, Head of Abu Dhabi Film Commission, noted the significance of hosting the international crew for three separate shoots, totalling nearly a month of production.