F1 The Movie Secures Four 2026 Oscar Nominations Including Best Picture

F1 The Movie has roared into the awards season race, securing four Academy Award nominations for the 2026 Oscars, including the prestigious Best Picture. The high-octane blockbuster, which has already grossed over $630 million globally, is recognized not just for its star power but for its technical prowess in editing, sound, and visual effects.

Why it matters:

This nomination marks a rare crossover triumph for a sports film, validating Formula 1's massive surge in global popularity and cultural relevance. For Apple, the critical acclaim reinforces their strategic investment in the sport, serving as a catalyst for their upcoming U.S. broadcasting rights deal starting in 2026.

The details:

• Prestigious Nods: The film competes for Best Picture against a diverse field including Frankenstein and Marty Supreme, while also securing nominations for Best Film Editing, Best Sound, and Best Visual Effects.
• Immersive Realism: Directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, the film achieved its authentic look by shooting during actual Grand Prix weekends in 2023 and 2024.
• Star Power: The narrative follows Brad Pitt’s character, a veteran racer mentoring a rookie played by Damson Idris at the fictional APX GP team. Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton served as an executive producer and facilitated unprecedented access to the paddock.
• Box Office Success: Since its June 2025 release, the movie has exceeded commercial expectations, fueling early discussions about a potential sequel.

Between the lines:

The film's success has had tangible business ripple effects beyond the box office. Apple’s global head of sports, Jim DeLorenzo, revealed that the collaborative experience of making the movie was instrumental in their decision to acquire F1's U.S. broadcast rights. The project effectively bridged the gap between Hollywood storytelling and live sports production, proving that the two industries can drive mutual growth.