As the engines rev up for the Miami Grand Prix, something extraordinary is happening off the grid. At a dazzling event hosted by IWC Schaffhausen, the worlds of Formula One and Hollywood merged in a celebration that wasn’t just about watches or racing, it was about storytelling on the grandest scale.
IWC, known for its engineering mastery in horology, joined forces with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula One and the producers of the highly anticipated F1 movie to create an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience. Held just days before the Miami GP, this event pulled in a mix of real-world racing icons and Hollywood heavyweights.
A-List Lineup, Trackside Tales
F1 team boss Toto Wolff and Mercedes driver George Russell shared the stage with Hollywood producer Jerry Bruckheimer and stars Kerry Condon and Simone Ashley. Together, they peeled back the curtain on what it takes to turn the high-stakes intensity of F1 into a believable and electrifying cinematic experience.
George Russell reflected on his surreal podium moment with Brad Pitt, who stars in the film as fictional APXGP driver Sonny Hayes. Meanwhile, Bruckheimer and his team spoke candidly about filming at actual Grand Prix events, a bold move that elevates the film’s realism to unprecedented levels.
IWC and the Rise of APXGP
A standout aspect of the event was the spotlight on IWC’s partnership with the film’s fictional team, APXGP, the 11th team on the grid. IWC didn’t just provide watches; they built an entire collection around the team. Every actor from Damson Idris to Kerry Condon sported the custom-designed Ingenieur Automatic 40 with a green dial, the same model Brad Pitt’s character wears on screen.
The synergy between cinematic craft and precision watchmaking was on full display, with attendees able to get hands-on with the timepieces inspired by the movie.
Racing Meets Cinema: Real Tracks, Real Stakes
This film isn’t just another motorsport movie with CGI pit stops. It’s the result of two years embedded within the F1 paddock, capturing the energy and authenticity of the sport. For motorsport fans, it promises the most accurate depiction of F1 ever attempted. For film lovers, it’s a Bruckheimer blockbuster with real-world speed.
Final Thoughts: A Lap Ahead of the Curve
At Motor Verso, we value engineering, experience, and execution — and this project ticks all three boxes. Whether it’s Wolff’s precision in strategy, IWC’s devotion to craftsmanship, or Hollywood’s storytelling magic, the collaboration is a winning formula. As Miami gears up for the lights out, the world waits not just for the race, but for a film that might just redefine what it means to bring Formula One to the silver screen.
