The Formula 1 world never stands still, and the recent statements by Hollywood star Brad Pitt have caused the minds to flare up. During an interview in the run-up to the release of the long-awaited F1 film, in which Pitt himself plays a leading role, the actor was confronted with a question that many a fan kept in tension: who is the biggest hero on the circuit, Max Verstappen or Lewis Hamilton? Pitt’s answer, which was both surprising and diplomatic, led to heated discussions among fans of both drivers and has again the spotlight aimed at the rivalry between the two quantities.

Pitt, who worked closely with Lewis Hamilton as co-producer of the film, initially seemed to be brought into a difficult position by the reporter’s question. Hamilton, a seven -time world champion, not only has an unparalleled track record in sport, but also played a crucial role in guaranteeing the authenticity of the film. On the other hand, Max Verstappen, the four -time world champion, is currently the dominant power in Formula 1, with an unprecedented series of victories and a driving style that calls both admiration and controversy. Choosing between these two icons seemed an impossible task, but Pitt managed to show both respect and break the expectations with his answer.

Instead of making a direct choice, Pitt praised both drivers for their unique qualities. He emphasized Hamilton’s unparalleled experience and his contribution to the sport, both on and off the track, especially in his pursuit of diversity and inclusion. At the same time, he spoke with admiration about Verstappens determination and his ability to perform under pressure, calling the Dutchman a “phenomenon” that the sport is pushing to new heights. But what really surprised fans was Pitts final remark: “If I have to choose who is the biggest hero, I say it is the fans. Without their passion and dedication, Formula 1 would not be what it is today.” This unexpected turn caused mixed reactions, ranging from appreciation for his neutrality to slight disappointment among fans who hoped for a clear preference.

The context of Pitts’s answer cannot be seen separately from the F1 film, which will appear in the cinemas on 27 June. The production, which was partly filmed during real racing weekends, has attracted a lot of attention because of the unprecedented access to the Formula 1 world. Pitt and his co-star Damson Idris play drivers of the fictional APX GP team, and the film promises a realistic representation of the sport. Hamilton’s involvement as a producer has ensured that the film remains true to the technical and cultural aspects of Formula 1, while Pitt’s own driving experience-he drove more than 6000 miles in formula-like cars-makes the action on the screen extra credible. During the recordings, Pitt was regularly seen in the Paddock, where he had interactions with drivers, including Verstappen and Hamilton, which deepened his insight into their personalities and performance.

Verstappen himself has shown less enthusiasm for the film. The Dutchman, known for his no-nonsense attitude, skipped a special preview in Monaco to spend time with his family and his SIM race activities. He indicated that he would watch the film later, but his absence in the event led to speculation about his skepticism towards Hollywoods interpretation of sport. Hamilton, on the other hand, has embraced the film and emphasizes how these new fans can attract, especially after the success of Netflix “Drive to Survive. The contrasting postures of the two drivers reflect their wider differences: Hamilton as a worldwide ambassador of the sport, Verstappen focuses on racing as a purist.

Pitts’s answer has not only highlighted the rivalry between Verstappen and Hamilton, but also underlines the broader attraction of Formula 1. By labeling the fans as the real heroes, he acknowledged the driving force behind the sport. While the film release is approaching, the question remains who the “biggest” is unanswered, but one thing is certain: the passion of the fans, fed by drivers such as Verstappen and Hamilton, keeps the Formula 1 buzzing.