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Brad Pitt films podium scene after Abu Dhabi GP

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The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix may have crowned its 2023 winners, but the spotlight was stolen by an unexpected guest on the podium: Brad Pitt. The Hollywood superstar, known for his versatility and charm, stepped onto the top step of the podium after the conclusion of the race, filming a scene for the upcoming Jerry Bruckheimer movie ‘F1.’

Pitt shared the podium with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc and Mercedes' George Russell as they sprayed champagne in a staged victory celebration, a key moment in the movie. Accompanying them was fellow actor Javier Bardem, who portrays the team boss of the fictional Apex GP team led by Pitt's character, Sonny Hayes.

The cinematic celebration took place shortly after the actual race ceremony, where Lando Norris clinched victory, helping McLaren secure the constructors' championship. Leclerc had double the reason to celebrate, as he was present on both podiums, having finished third in the actual race on Sunday evening.

The highly anticipated movie, which boasts seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton as a producer, has enjoyed unprecedented access to the Formula 1 grid and all 10 teams. Filming began in 2023 and came to a climatic end at the Abu Dhabi event, marking a significant milestone for the project.

Throughout the season, Pitt has been filming scenes at various Grand Prix events, often in front of live audiences. Both Pitt and co-star Damson Idris, who plays Hayes' teammate in the film, have been actively involved in the action, driving a modified car designed to capture authentic race footage.

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"F1," slated for international release on June 25, 2025, will see its U.S. release two days later, both timings coinciding with the week of that season's Austrian Grand Prix. Warner Brothers Pictures and Apple have ensured the movie will be available to fans worldwide, promising a thrilling depiction of the high-octane world of Formula 1.

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