The racing drama F1: The Movie celebrated success at the Academy Awards, where it won the Oscar for Best Sound.

The award went to the film’s sound team of Gareth John, Al Nelson, Gwendolyn Yates Whittle, Gary A. Rizzo and Juan Peralta for their work recreating the distinctive intensity of Formula 1. Their approach combined authentic trackside recordings with carefully designed audio to capture the raw sound of modern grand prix cars.

Directed by Joseph Kosinski and starring Brad Pitt, the film arrived at the ceremony with four nominations in total but ultimately secured a single win.

Released in 2025, the production quickly established itself as one of the most ambitious racing films ever made. The project was developed with significant input from the Formula 1 paddock, with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton serving as a producer and advisor to help ensure authenticity.

The story centres on veteran driver Sonny Hayes, played by Pitt, who returns to Formula 1 years after his first career ended in disappointment. He joins the fictional APXGP team alongside promising rookie Joshua Pearce, portrayed by Damson Idris, as the pair attempt to turn the team’s fortunes around.

To enhance realism, parts of the film were shot during real Formula 1 race weekends, with specially adapted camera systems mounted on the cars to place viewers directly in the cockpit. Beyond critical recognition, the film also proved a major commercial success. It grossed more than $600 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing motor racing film ever produced.

In addition to Best Sound, the film had also been nominated for Best Picture, Best Visual Effects and Best Original Song for “Drive” by Ed Sheeran.