Check out the rare behind-the-scenes video of Brad Pitt's blockbuster F1 set against Abu Dhabi race tracks

Dubai: If you thought F1: The Movie was all studio sheen and sponsor gloss, think again.

A new behind-the-scenes video, floated by Abu Dhabi Film Commission, proves there’s real rubber meeting real tarmac — and Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit was the heartbeat of it all.

Filmed over three shoot periods — including during the live Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in both 2023 and 2024 — this footage is less “movie magic” and more “how did they even do that?”

It features on-set reflections from Brad Pitt (still hotter than a V12 engine at 62), director Joseph Kosinski, producer Jerry Bruckheimer, and stunt supremo Tim Brampton.

And yes, they really did film during an actual Grand Prix — a first in feature film history. They had just one hour to film on the actual race tracks as the real race was playing out.

"It was really incredible," said Pitt in that video.

The behind-the-scenes footage also offers a rare glimpse at the scale, access, and authenticity Abu Dhabi brought to the production.

From Zayed International Airport to the sleek studios of twofour54, the emirate wasn’t just a backdrop — it was a co-star.

And what a role it played. From the roaring straights of Yas Marina to the quiet hustle behind the pit walls, this video captures a film production that refused to fake the finish line.

Abu Dhabi offered more than just logistics and permits (though there were plenty); it delivered atmosphere, scale, and something Hollywood can’t green-screen — lived-in realism.

With 284 crew members, 29 shoot days, and a crew of rising local talent — including Emirati interns training alongside A-listers — F1: The Movie is as much a love letter to filmmaking as it is to fast cars.

And Abu Dhabi? It was the track where the comeback happened.

When you watch the video, you will feel the roar. And remember: this isn't just another sports movie. It's a redemption arc, turbocharged and filmed at 300 km/h.

Interestingly, in our exclusive Gulf News interview over zoom video with Kosinski and Bruckheimer , the filmmakers echoed that spirit.

“It’s not for the money,” they told me when asked what keep them motivated to take on such ambitious projects.