The internet’s latest obsession, Formula One racing, has a chokehold on the minds of people across the world, drawing in many new fans.
F1, or Formula One, racing is a motorsport originally invented in 1950. Much of the recent phenomenon around F1 can be attributed to the ongoing Netflix show “Drive to Survive,” as it has reached the screens of many people who had not been able to watch F1 races.
Despite Formula One’s growing followership, entering into this sport as a new viewer can be complicated and intimidating. To make things easier, here’s a list of racing movies you can watch to get you ready to become Formula One’s next fan. It’s even listed by the driver to help you find which constructor (another name for the racing team) you want to support.
Max Verstappen - Red Bull
Max Verstappen is Red Bull’s shining star, Formula One’s current golden boy and the driver with the longest Grand Prix winning streak. Known for his aggressive driving style, these films match his aggression and have an exciting feel.
“Rush” (2013)
The first to watch is “Rush.” This biographical film from 2013 tells the story of the infamous rivalry between Briton driver James Hunt and Austrian driver Nikki Lauda during their 1976 season. The film focuses on the contrasting personalities and racing techniques of these two drivers and explores the high-stakes environment and dangers of the sport. Verstappen embodies this film in personality and driving style, fitting his competitive nature and love for rivalry.
“Rush” is available to stream on Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video.
“The Fast and the Furious” (2001)
First in a franchise of 13, this movie follows Brian O’Conner, an undercover LAPD officer investigating truck hijackings who infiltrates a street racing group and finds himself torn between his duty and loyalty to his newfound group. The high-speed energy of this movie aligns with Verstappen’s aggressive driving style, where dominance determines the winner.
“The Fast and the Furious” is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Hulu and Max.
Charles Leclerc - Scuderia Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, now entering his seventh season with Scuderia Ferrari, is widely beloved by the F1 community for previously being a young and extremely talented up-and-coming driver who has now become the face of Ferrari. The movies recommended for Leclerc fans mirror his story.
“Ferrari” (2023)
“Ferrari” is based on the life of Enzo Ferrari, the founder of the entire car manufacturer. Filled with scenes depicting Ferrari’s personal and professional struggles throughout his career, the movie is centered on the summer of 1957, when his company faced bankruptcy as he faced complex personal problems. Including this film in the Leclerc list is a perfect fit for his strong connection with the Ferrari company.
“Ferrari” is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Disney+ and Hulu.
“Cars 3” (2017)
This classic family movie follows Lightning McQueen, now a veteran racer, as he learns to navigate the new world of racing with technologically advanced opponents. Using the help of Cruz Ramirez, a young technician, he works to prove his worth to stay in the sport, eventually helping Ramirez to start racing. Just like Leclerc and his story of being a talented young racer, Cruz Ramirez’s story within the film mirrors his journey of being a rookie racer.
“Cars 3” is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV and Disney+.
Lewis Hamilton - Mercedes/Ferrari
This last driver needs no introduction. The champion Lewis Hamilton, who has been driving for Mercedes for the past 12 seasons, just switched over to drive the Scuderia Ferrari for the 2025 season. Coming from humble beginnings, Hamilton has taken an iconic stylish approach to the racing world, and his list of movies reflects that.
“Senna” (2024)
This TV miniseries tells the story of the life and death of Ayrton Senna, a legendary Brazilian F1 racer. Focusing on his career in Formula One, his rivalry with Alain Prost and his death in the San Marino Grand Prix of 1994, this miniseries depicts the life of Hamilton’s idol, from whom he has drawn much inspiration.
“Senna” is available to stream on Netflix.
“Gran Turismo” (2023)
“Gran Turismo” is based on a true story that shows Jann Mardenborough, a teenage gamer, being offered the opportunity to race in real life by winning a series of Nissan racing competitions. As an underdog, Mardenborough matches the humble beginnings of Hamilton and his deterministic nature to rise and win.
Some other racing movies you can watch that are not on this list but are still a great recommendation are “Turbo,” “Ford v Ferrari” and “Le Mans.” So don’t let the technical terms and long-time Formula One fans get you down. Sit back, relax and turn on one of these fast-paced movies that are sure to get you hooked on F1 racing.
“Gran Turismo” is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV and Netflix.
This article was edited by Alia Messina, Marina Zaczkiewicz and Abigail Turner. Copy editing was done by Olivia Citarella, Emma Brown and Ariana Kavoossi.
