F1 star sounds warning to fans over new Brad Pitt movie ahead of release
F1: The Movie is set to be released next week and had its worldwide premiere on Monday, with Carlos Sainz among the drivers who were in attendance in New York
F1: The Movie, the new Brad Pitt film about Formula 1 racing, may not be for purists, according to Williams star Carlos Sainz. Despite this, he encourages fans to approach the Hollywood production with an open mind, suggesting it could draw in new enthusiasts.
The movie is set to race into theaters next week, following its global premiere on Monday. The sport's biggest names gathered at Times Square in New York for the debut, with a post-screening celebration held at Rockefeller Center.
Sainz was present alongside Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, and George Russell as the film, featuring Pitt, revs up for release. In the movie, Pitt plays Sonny Hayes, a driver coaxed back into the sport after retiring in the '90s due to a horrific crash.
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Lewis Hamilton, who served as a consultant on the film to ensure authenticity, was seen with stars Pitt and Damson Idris.
While the film may have aimed for a high degree of realism, there's hope that F1: The Movie can broaden the sport's fanbase, particularly in the U.S., even if that means incorporating some Hollywood spectacle.
Sainz shared his thoughts on the red carpet, expressing belief that the film could be enlightening for newcomers. He also suggested that existing fans should find enjoyment in the fictional elements.
"There's something for everyone for sure," he remarked, adding, "I'll just say for the pure F1 fans, be open-minded to Hollywood films. For all the new fans, that's our sport."
Max Verstappen, current world champion and Red Bull star, skipped the event and has indicated that he may eventually see the film with limited enthusiasm, hopeful for a potentially enjoyable surprise.
"I'm going home to my daughter. Whether I will watch that film at a later time? Maybe yes," he stated.
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"If it suits me or if someone else wants to see it, then I'm fine with it. And maybe I will be positively surprised.
"I also sincerely hope that it is a good and successful film and that it has a positive effect on Formula 1. You just shouldn't force me to go somewhere, because that's not quite how it should be."