Formula 1 has returned for the 2026 season, bringing fast-paced racing and high-stakes rivalries. With plenty of racing events each weekend, from qualifying to the race itself, Formula 1 has been both adrenaline-inducing and addictive for fans around the world. While the wait between races can feel endless, these four movies and television series inspired by the vast world of Formula 1 are here to quell the hunger of eager fans

F1: The Movie

The 2025 summer blockbuster film, “F1: The Movie,” is the gripping tale of a retired Formula 1 driver, Sonny Hayes, who is brought back into the immersive action at the request of his former teammate, turned team owner. Played by Brad Pitt, Sonny has to face battles both on and off the track, from his mixed emotions for his teammates to the competitors he has to race against.

“F1: The Movie” is an Oscar-winning film, with stunning visuals and a massive budget that flaunts its wealth at every turn. Between the glamorous cars and training facilities, audiences are immersed in the wealthy world of Formula 1. Additionally, fans of the sport can spot plenty of real Formula 1 drivers and influential figures, as the crew worked closely with Formula 1 to develop the film.

Formula 1: Drive to Survive

With its eighth season recently released, the Netflix documentary series, “Drive to Survive,” brings fans into the backstages of Formula 1. “Drive to Survive” immerses audiences into the lives of the Formula 1 drivers, giving many people the opportunity to see the drivers’ personalities and interactions more than they would have by only watching the races. Every episode focuses on an important topic or highlight from the last season, and reveals footage that has never been seen before.

While Netflix is credited for the rising popularity of Formula 1 within the U.S., critics argue that the series overemphasizes drama between the drivers and fabricates situations to get more action. 

Despite this, the series is still a highly addictive watch that recaps important events and is a great opportunity for new fans to learn the names of the teams and drivers before immersing themselves further into the sport.

Rush

Based on the true story of the real lives of two former Formula 1 drivers known for their intense rivalry, James Hunt and Niki Lauda, “Rush” is the story of how these drivers pushed each other to their limits. 

Hunt is the loud-mouthed party animal known for his drunken behavior and flirtatious ways, contrasting entirely with his biggest opponent, Lauda, who is both cold and calculating and never lets distractions get in the way of his performance. 

Both drivers come together to clash both on and off the track, never letting the other get ahead in the battle to become the
world champion.

Daniel Brühl gives an outstanding performance in his portrayal of Lauda, and Chris Hemsworth also delivers as Hunt. 

“Rush” combines intense racing sequences with deep character development and is both a thrilling experience for fans of the sport.

 General audiences looking for a compelling storyline with deep emotions and suspenseful moments left the theater completely satisfied after the many sequences of intense racing.

Taking place in the 1970s golden age of Formula 1, “Rush” is one of IMDb’s Top 250 Movies.

Senna

One of the most highly regarded sports documentaries, “Senna,” explores the life and death of three-time Formula 1 world champion Ayrton Senna, a Brazilian driver who started in the 1980s and is revered as the greatest of all time. Senna’s tale is a tragic one, which ends in a fatal crash that left the driver dead at only 34 years old after a regulation change to the Formula 1 cars that proved to be  dangerous and deadly.

“Senna” explores the life of Senna throughout his Formula 1 career, and dives into the darkest week of Formula 1 history that led to serious safety changes and regulations to prevent further deaths in the sport. The impact Senna has had on the Formula 1 world is undeniable, and “Senna” provides audiences with the truth behind his life and stimulates both heart-wrenching and
thrilling emotions.