Apple has announced that its high-octane racing drama, “F1 The Movie,” will make its global streaming debut on Apple TV this December. Directed by Joseph Kosinski of “Top Gun: Maverick” fame, the film has already shattered box office records since its theatrical release earlier this year.
In a subtle yet significant update, Apple has rebranded its streaming service from Apple TV+ to simply Apple TV, complete with a vibrant new identity. This change marks the end of the “Plus” era, simplifying the branding to better align with Apple’s ecosystem of devices and services. The rebrand has already begun appearing in iOS 26.1 beta, signaling a fresh chapter for Apple’s entertainment offerings.
Released in theaters on June 27, 2025, “F1 The Movie” quickly became the highest-grossing sports film of all time, raking in over $629 million globally. As noted by Apple, “In addition to being the highest-grossing sports film, “F1 The Movie” is this year’s highest-grossing original feature, and the biggest opening for an original live-action film in the U.S. in the last five years, as well as Brad Pitt’s highest-grossing feature to date.”
Critics and audiences alike have praised its authenticity, earning an A CinemaScore and a 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. The film’s success highlights the enduring appeal of Formula 1 racing, blending high-speed action with compelling storytelling. Brad Pitt leads as Sonny Hayes, a former racing phenom making a dramatic comeback. He is joined by Damson Idris as the ambitious rookie Joshua Pearce and Javier Bardem as team owner Ruben Cervantes. The ensemble also includes Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, and Kim Bodnia.
Behind the camera, Kosinski collaborates with a powerhouse team, including producers Jerry Bruckheimer, Lewis Hamilton—a seven-time Formula 1 world champion—and Pitt himself. The screenplay comes from Ehren Kruger, with Hans Zimmer composing the score to amp up the tension.
The story follows Sonny Hayes, once Formula 1’s brightest star, who returns after a career-ending accident to save a struggling team. Teaming up with his old friend Ruben and clashing with rookie Joshua, Sonny navigates fierce competition and personal redemption on the track. What sets “F1 The Movie” apart is its real-world filming during actual Grand Prix weekends, capturing the raw intensity of the sport against top competitors. This approach makes it the most authentic racing feature ever produced.
Complementing the film is “F1 The Album,” which has sold over 650,000 copies and garnered more than one billion streams worldwide. Tracks like Tate McRae’s “Just Keep Watching” dominate charts, adding to the movie’s cultural impact. Ahead of the streaming launch, the film is available for digital purchase on platforms like the Apple TV app, Amazon Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.
Producer Jerry Bruckheimer expressed excitement about the streaming release, noting Apple’s global reach will bring the film’s thrilling action to even more viewers. As Apple continues to blend technology with entertainment, “F1 The Movie” positions the platform as a go-to for blockbuster content.
Mark your calendars for December 12, and get ready to experience the rush of Formula 1 from the comfort of home. What are your thoughts on this racing epic? Share in the comments below. Stay updated with the latest news on this by downloading the Appleosophy App from the App Store or by visiting our website.
