While nothing is officially greenlit yet, the world of F1 may be heading toward another lap. After the first film became a global sensation, director Joseph Kosinski has revealed that he and Apple Studios are already bouncing around ideas for a possible sequel — a follow-up centered on the next chapter of veteran racer Sonny Hayes and the Apex GP team.
A High-Speed Drama That Left Audiences Wanting More
The first film followed Brad Pitt as a retired Formula One legend making a comeback, only to face tension with his rookie teammate, played by Damson Idris. Their competitive rivalry — paired with on-track chaos and emotional depth — helped turn the movie into a fan favourite. The cast also included Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, and Javier Bardem, all guided by a screenplay from Ehren Kruger.
The movie’s worldwide run, combined with strong overseas support, has led many to believe that F1 has the potential to develop into a full-fledged franchise.
Kosinski & Apple Discuss “What Comes Next” for F1
In a recent conversation with Variety, Kosinski confirmed that he’s been in early discussions about returning to the world of Formula One. He shared that the overwhelming global response made it clear audiences are ready for more fuel, more drama, and more Sonny Hayes.
He explained that the team is currently “thinking about the next chapter,” but stressed that everything is still at the idea stage — not yet official.
Kosinski’s rise to the top of action filmmaking, especially after the blockbuster success of Top Gun: Maverick, has made him one of Hollywood’s most in-demand directors. That momentum is now shaping the future of F1, even if the sequel is months (or years) from becoming a reality.
But There’s a Timing Problem: Everyone Is Booked
As exciting as the idea sounds, both Kosinski and Brad Pitt are stacked with commitments.
For Kosinski:
- Directing the Miami Vice reboot starring Michael B. Jordan and Austin Butler
- Expected to return for Top Gun 3
- Working again with Ehren Kruger, with Glen Powell also set to return
For Brad Pitt:
- Filming The Adventures of Cliff Booth, a sequel to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
- Attached to Ocean’s Fourteen, which is in early development
With schedules like those, a sequel to F1 may have to sit in the pit lane for a while.
But this delay might actually help: longer development time would give Kosinski and Apple the chance to refine the script, expand the world, and tailor a concept worthy of another big-budget outing.
The Box Office Case for an F1 Franchise
There’s no denying the first film made an impact. F1 was one of the year’s strong performers, proving that high-octane dramas still pull in crowds when the storytelling is sharp. The global motorsport fanbase alone gives the movie unusual reach, and the Formula One brand continues to explode in popularity thanks to international races and the sport’s growing digital footprint.
For Warner Bros. and Apple Original Films, a sequel would be a strategic move — even if it requires another expensive production. Franchise value, recurring audiences, and massive international love make another movie a promising (though costly) opportunity.
Final Word
The sequel isn’t confirmed yet — but the early conversations signal strong intent. With Brad Pitt’s charisma, Kosinski’s action mastery, and a wildly enthusiastic global fanbase, F1 is perfectly positioned to evolve into Hollywood’s next big-speed franchise.
All it needs now is the green light.
