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The high-octane world of Formula 1 is set to return to the big screen. Following the massive commercial and critical success of the first film, Apple CEO Tim Cook has confirmed that a sequel is officially in the works. In a move that signals Apple's deepening commitment to its film slate, reports indicate that Cook himself is taking a hands-on role in the creative direction of the next installment.
The original F1 film, starring Brad Pitt as veteran driver Sonny Hayes, shattered records to become the highest-grossing sports film of all time, raking in over $629 million at the global box office. This success has made a follow-up not just a possibility, but a priority for Apple Studios and its distribution partner, Warner Bros.
Speaking at the Emmys, Tim Cook addressed the rumors directly, stating that a sequel is "definitely something that's being talked about." While Cook is typically known for overseeing tech operations, his reported involvement in the creative decisions for the sequel highlights the importance of this franchise to Apple’s entertainment ecosystem.
While Cook provides executive oversight, the creative engine remains powered by director Joseph Kosinski and legendary producer Jerry Bruckheimer. Kosinski has already begun "dreaming up" the next chapter for Sonny Hayes and the fictional APXGP team.
"We always envisioned this as a multi-film arc," Kosinski noted in recent interviews. "The goal is to explore the modern racing era and the immense pressures these drivers face in a way that feels authentic and visceral."
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer also confirmed that he has been in close contact with seven-time F1 champion Lewis Hamilton. Hamilton, who served as a producer and technical advisor on the first film, is expected to return to ensure the sequel maintains the technical accuracy that fans and drivers alike praised.
The sequel is expected to build on the foundation of the first film, likely returning to live Grand Prix circuits for filming. The production team aims to leverage the same ground-breaking camera technology that put audiences inside the cockpit of an F1 car.
Key points for the upcoming sequel include:
The collaboration between a tech giant like Apple, a visionary director like Kosinski, and the world of Formula 1 has created a new blueprint for sports movies. With Tim Cook taking a more active role in the creative process, the F1 sequel is positioned to be one of the most anticipated cinematic events of the coming years.
As the project moves from discussion into active development, fans can expect more details regarding casting and the filming schedule to emerge during the upcoming F1 season.
He’s a software engineer with a deep passion for Formula 1 and motorsport. He co-founded Formula Live Pulse to make live telemetry and race insights accessible, visual, and easy to follow.