Lewis Hamilton has come forward to defend the casting of Hollywood A-lister Brad Pitt in his new blockbuster. The 59-year-old actor will be racing an adapted Formula Two car during practice sessions at the sold-out Silverstone circuit this weekend as part of his role in an upcoming film that Hamilton is helping to produce.
Pitt will be playing the character of a seasoned driver who makes a comeback to the sport after a 30-year hiatus. While some eyebrows have been raised due to Pitt's age, Hamilton has praised the actor's fitness and appearance: "Brad looks like he's ageing backwards. He looks great for his age. Of course, that was a big topic at the beginning when we were discussing the first story, but he's super-fit."
Hamilton, who is thrilled to have Pitt involved in Formula One, added: "He is such an iconic actor. He's always done such an incredible job. I can't tell you how excited I am to have Brad Pitt in Formula One. It's incredible."
In preparation for his role, Pitt has been training in Formula Two machinery for the past two months, starting at the Paul Ricard Circuit in France before moving to Silverstone. Although he will be the only driver on the track at Silverstone, Pitt will be aided by computer-generated imagery to make it appear as though he is racing alongside this season's grid.
To create an authentic racing atmosphere, a garage has been set up in the paddock to represent a fictional team called Apex GP. The team will also have a presence on the grid before Sunday's race, but will be withdrawn before the event begins.
Hamilton expressed his nerves about the project, saying: "There are nerves because it is something we've been working on for so long. We want everyone to love it and to really feel that we encapsulate what the essence of this sport is all about."
Reflecting on the significance of this venture, Hamilton noted that it may not have been possible a decade ago, under the previous management. However, with the success of a Formula One Netflix documentary and the sport's growth, Hamilton believes that this film will take Formula One to new heights.
Apple has secured the rights to the movie, with a budget of around £125 million ($140 million). Joseph Kosinski, known for his work on Top Gun: Maverick, will direct the film, and producer Jerry Bruckheimer, who also collaborated on the Tom Cruise blockbuster, is on board as well. Filming will continue at various races throughout the season.
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