Second F1 movie officially in development after first film's success

A sequel to the 2024 Formula 1 film is officially in development, producer Jerry Bruckheimer has confirmed. The first movie, a major collaboration between F1 and Apple Studios, proved a commercial success by grossing over $600 million worldwide against a $300 million budget and recently earned a surprise nomination for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

Why it matters:

The green light for a sequel validates F1's high-risk, high-reward strategy of entering the feature film arena. The first film's performance—both at the box office and during awards season—has significantly boosted the sport's global mainstream profile, creating a powerful new revenue stream and marketing vehicle beyond the traditional race weekend.

The details:

• Producer Jerry Bruckheimer told the BBC "we're working on a sequel," marking the first official confirmation of the project's development.
• Key details on timeline, casting, or whether director Joseph Kosinski will return remain undisclosed.
• The first film's financial return, while not record-breaking, was solid. It grossed over $600 million globally, doubling its reported production budget.
• Its prestige was dramatically elevated by securing four Academy Award nominations, including the top prize of Best Picture alongside critical favorites.
  • The other three nominations were in technical categories: Best Sound, Best Editing, and Best Visual Effects.

What's next:

The immediate focus will be on locking in the core creative team and cast. Director Joseph Kosinski, who now has two Best Picture-nominated films with Bruckheimer (including Top Gun: Maverick), is a likely candidate to return. A major question surrounds lead actor Brad Pitt, now 62, and co-star Damson Idris, as Bruckheimer did not confirm their participation for the sequel. The project's development signals Apple Studios' and F1's commitment to extending the franchise's success both commercially and as a brand amplifier for the sport.