On June 17, 2025, the world premiere ofF1: The Movie, the long-awaited Hollywood production with Brad Pitt in the lead. While almost all Formula 1 drivers were present to parade over the red carpet, Max Verstappen was remarkably absent. The four-time world champion chose to exchange the glamor of the film world for a test day on the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, where he lived his passion for GT3 racing. With its sober statement, “the film is fine, but not necessary,” Verstappen underlined his focus on what really counts for him: racing and his private life.
Verstappen, who recently became the father of his daughter Lily, made it clear that he would rather spend his precious free time on his family and personal projects. In conversation with the Dutch media in Montreal, he explained: “I’d rather go home, to my daughter. I sincerely hope that the film will be a success, but you should not force me to go somewhere.” These words reflect the mentality of a driver who is known for his no-nonsense attitude. Instead of being carried away by the glitter and glamor of Hollywood, Verstappen flew after the Grand Prix from Canada to Belgium to test with a GT3 car under the name Franz Hermann, a nod to his pseudonym during previous test sessions.
F1: The Movie, who will appear in Dutch cinemas on 26 June, promises a spectacular representation of the Formula 1 world. With Brad Pitt as Sonny Hayes, a fictional driver who returns after a crash to guide a young talent, the film focuses on a wide audience. The production, directed by Joseph Kosinski (Top Gun: Maverick), uses advanced technology to create realistic racing scenes, with adapted Formula 2 cars and innovative cameras. Although drivers such as Lewis Hamilton, who is involved as a producer, and others such as Charles Leclerc and Lando Norris appear in the film, Verstappen was less enthusiastic about a greater role. “We talked about it, but it didn’t happen. That’s fine. It’s not why I’m here,” he said.
Verstappen’s absence in the premiere was no surprise. Already during an earlier exclusive display in Monaco, he took the invitation to go simracing with his team Redline friends. His focus is clearly elsewhere: on the track and with his family. “I live my life. As soon as I leave the paddock, I don’t think about it anymore,” he toldRacingNews365. In addition to his Formula 1 obligations, Verstappen is passionate about other racing projects, such as its GT3 tests and simrace activities. This dedication to his own interests, combined with his reluctance against obligations outside racing, makes him a unique figure in the sport.
The film itself receives mixed reactions. Although the visual effects and the soundtrack of Hans Zimmer make an impression, some motorsport fans sometimes leave realism to be desired. Verstappen’s sober view seems to echo this sentiment: he hopes that the film will benefit Formula 1, but feels no personal need to be involved. “If I can watch the movie on Apple in a few weeks, that’s fine too,” he said with a smile. His focus is now on the upcoming Grand Prix of Austria, where he wants to strengthen his lead in the championship after a strong second place in Canada.
Verstappen’s choice to skip the premiere and to focus on his family and passion for racing shows his priorities. While the Formula 1 world is preparing for a new wave of attention thanks to the film, Verstappen remains faithful to himself. His sober attitude and dedication to pure racing not only make him a champion on the track, but also a driver who sails his own course, regardless of the expectations of the outside world.
