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Brad Pitt Says F1 Drivers Face Harsher Spotlight Than Hollywood Stars

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Samriddhi Jaiswal | Last updated May 30, 2025 2:43 PM ET

Brad Pitt knows a thing or two about life in the spotlight but even he admits that Formula 1 drivers might have it worse.

In a revealing interview with GQ Italia, the Hollywood icon reflected on what he’s learned from spending time around the F1 paddock, particularly while filming the upcoming Formula 1 movie. The project stars Damson Idris as rookie driver Joshua Pearce, with Pitt playing his mentor. But it’s what Pitt saw behind the scenes that truly surprised him.

“There’s a sense of isolation,” Pitt said. “Even in loneliness, when things seem to go in the wrong direction. It’s an effort and a continuous confrontation with oneself to keep the spark alive.”

While actors are no strangers to pressure, Pitt believes Formula 1 drivers are under an even more brutal microscope.

“They’re in the spotlight like few others,” he explained. “It is a sport followed by many people and many believe that they can do their own business just because they run fast on the highway. They take an absurd amount of criticism. It upsets me. They must have the thickest skin, even more than us.”

It’s a powerful observation coming from one of the most recognized faces in entertainment. Drivers like Lewis Hamilton, who is also a co-producer on the film, have often spoken about the mental toll that comes with not only competing at the highest level of motorsport but doing so under constant public judgment.

Brad Pitt congratulating Lewis Hamilton after he won the British GP yesterday at Silverstone.#bradpitt #Formula1 pic.twitter.com/jAl52qtF9g
— vi (@itshighart) July 8, 2024

As anticipation builds for Pitt’s F1 movie, his comments offer a rare look at how much respect the actor has gained for those who live life at 200 mph, under pressure most can’t begin to understand.

And if Pitt’s words are any indication, this film might be the most authentic portrayal of the sport yet.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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