The world of Hollywood and Formula 1 recently clashed in a spectacular way when actor Brad Pitt, known for his roles in films such asFight ClubinOnce Upon a Time in Hollywood, a surprising confession did during an interview on a film premiere in Los Angeles.

To promote his upcoming  Formula 1 movie,F1, in which he plays a seasoned driver, Pitt let it fall for that he has a special admiration for one of the biggest stars in the sport: Max Verstappen, the four -time world champion.

The pronunciation, which introduced the press and fans present made it clear that Pitt did not mean the much -discussed Lewis Hamilton, but the Dutch sensation that has dominated Formula 1 in recent years.

Pitt, who has been closely involved in the Formula 1 world for the recordings ofF1, a project supported by Apple Original films and co -produced by Lewis Hamilton, spoke full of passion about Verstappen. “I have a great love for that boy,” said Pitt, referring to the Red Bull driver. “His focus, his precision, the way he approaches races – it’s almost art. He is a phenomenon.” The actor, who has worked closely with drivers and teams for the film, including Mercedes and Red Bull, described how he was impressed by Verstappens unparalleled talent and sober personality.

The recordings ofF1, which take place on real circuits such as Silverstone and Zandvoort, Pitt gave a unique opportunity to experience Formula 1 up close. He spent time in the paddock, spoke with drivers and studied their routines to put his role as a fictional driver as authentic as possible. During this period his admiration grew for Verstappen, who won his fourth world title in a row in 2024. “I thought I knew what racing meant, but Max shows that it is more than just speed. It is mental power, strategy and pure willpower,” Pitt said, smiling at the cameras.

Interestingly enough, PITT also praised the wider Formula 1 community, but his comments about Verstappen steel the show. He emphasized that the Dutchman shows a unique combination of aggression and calmness on the track, something that distinguishes him from other drivers. “You see him stepping in that car, and it is as if the rest of the world disappears. That kind of dedication inspires me as an actor,” he added. Pitt even revealed that during the recordings he had contact with Verstappen a few times, who gave him advice on how he could put down a driver credibly.

The choice of PITT to praise Verstappen over Hamilton, who has an advisory role in the film and is more closely involved in production, caused some excitement in the media. Hamilton, a seven-time world champion and one of the most iconic figures in sport, is often seen as the public favorite in Hollywood circles, partly due to his work outside the track, such as his commitment to diversity and fashion. Yet PITT made it clear that his “love” comes from his pure racing instinct and unparalleled success on the circuit.

Fans of Verstappen were delighted about the praise of the Hollywood star. Pitts pronunciation was shared en masse on social media, especially on X, where Formula 1 news is quickly circulated. A fan wrote: “Brad Pitt who calls Max a phenomenon? That’s a cool confirmation!” Others noted that Pitts appreciation for Verstappen further increases the popularity of the Dutchman outside the Formula 1 world, especially now that the sport thanks to series such asDrive to SurviveA global audience.

Of filmF1, which is expected to be released in 2026, promises to be a spectacular representation of the Formula 1 world, with authentic racing scenes and cameos of real drivers. Pitt hinted that Verstappen may have a small role in the film, although he did not want to reveal too much about it. “Let’s say Max was an inspiration in more than one way,” he said with a wink. While the recordings of the film continue, the expectation is growingF1Not only will be an ode to the sport, but also to the unparalleled spirit of drivers as Verstappen.

With his statement, PITT has not only expressed his admiration for Verstappen, but also the spotlights aimed at a driver who has been conquering the hearts of fans for years. While Formula 1 is preparing for the Grand Prix of Austria, where Verstappen will undoubtedly shine again, he has an unexpected fan: a Hollywood legend who now gives his name even more shine worldwide.