Damson Idris named new global ambassador for Formula 1

Formula 1 has officially appointed a new Global Brand Ambassador: Damson Idris, the acclaimed actor who portrayed Joshua Pearce in the hit film “F1: The Movie”. The Apple-produced blockbuster achieved remarkable commercial success, grossing more than $630 million at the global box office. It also became the most successful sports film of all time, surpassing even Rush.

In the movie, Idris starred alongside Brad Pitt, who played Sonny Hayes, a former driver forced to come out of retirement to help a struggling F1 team. In the storyline, Sonny acts as both mentor and teammate to rookie driver Joshua Pearce, portrayed by Idris himself. One of the film’s defining features was its authenticity: director Joseph Kosinski and his crew filmed live during real Grands Prix around the world, working in full collaboration with Formula 1.

A new global ambassador for F1

Following the film’s extraordinary impact and global reach, Formula 1 has chosen Damson Idris as its new Global Brand Ambassador. CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “I am delighted to officially welcome Damson Idris to the Formula 1 family. After his starring role in ‘F1: The Movie,’ he joins us as our official Global Brand Ambassador.”

Domenicali added: “In Formula 1, we value authenticity, and Damson is passionate about this sport and shares our vision to grow it further. It is fantastic to continue working with him. Thanks to his incredible platform and his role in the worlds of entertainment and lifestyle, we will expand the boundaries of how we reach fans.”

Idris: “I’m genuinely excited”

Idris also spoke about his emotions regarding the new role: “Formula 1 sits at the intersection where culture, performance and precision meet. Before making the film I had enormous respect for this sport, but getting closer to it allowed me to truly understand the innovation, the heart and the intensity behind everything, and the elite level at which the drivers operate. I am genuinely excited to take on this role as Global Ambassador.”

As Global Brand Ambassador, Idris will serve as a bridge between the world of Formula 1 and the broader cultural landscape of entertainment. He will attend selected Grands Prix and support F1 across various content initiatives, partnerships and promotional activities, helping bring a new generation of fans closer to the sport.