Apple TV’s F1 Sequel Update Is a Big Mistake

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After grossing a whopping $600 million after its theatrical release, F1 dropped exclusively on Apple TV in December 2025. Unsurprisingly, it has created as big a stir on streaming, and the movie continues its hugely successful run well into 2026. The story of faded F1 icon Sonny Hayes (), helping his friend dig out his flailing Formula 1 team, APXGP, and getting his first Grand Prix win three decades after a horrific accident struck a chord with viewers, as F1 was able to blend emotion with high-stakes action in a rare sports film.

Apple TV is now the official home for Formula 1 races in the United States, as announced at a recent event in Santa Monica. Apple’s Eddy Cue and Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali discussed the possibility of a follow-up movie, with Domenicali hinting that one could be in the works, but not for next year. While another F1 film might seem appealing, some worry it could diminish the impact of the first movie – a surprise hit that greatly benefited both Hollywood and the sport of racing.

F1 Doesn’t Need A Sequel

I remember when F1 came out in June 2025, everyone was predicting it would make between $35 and $60 million in its opening weekend here in North America. Well, it blew those numbers away, bringing in $57 million! And it didn’t stop there – it ultimately earned a massive $633.1 million worldwide, according to Box Office Mojo. That made it Brad Pitt’s highest-grossing film ever, and the biggest sports movie of all time. Honestly, with numbers like that, it’s no surprise the streaming service is already thinking about how to make a sequel happen.

While another film might seem appealing, it wouldn’t be the best move for this story. The first film, F1, succeeded because it gave viewers a fascinating, inside look at the world of Formula 1 racing, and it did so convincingly. Having Lewis Hamilton as a producer ensured the races felt authentic, as they were filmed directly at the 2023 and 2024 Grand Prix events. Director Joseph Kosinski, known for his work on Top Gun: Maverick, brought a similar dynamic style to F1, resulting in a film that was both visually stunning and emotionally engaging.

The film resonated with the sport’s existing fans, who were eager to see a dramatic take on racing. Its success was due to a fresh concept, perfect timing, and a strong cast including Damson Idris, Javier Bardem, and Tobias Menzes. A sequel would feel forced, as the character Sonny Hayes’ story concluded when he decided to prioritize his passion for racing over pursuing a full-time F1 career. He continued racing simply for the love of the sport, not for fame or fortune.

The heart of the film F1 was the contrast between two racers: one motivated by wealth and recognition, and the other by inner peace and a sense of meaning. Sonny helped Joshua prioritize the sport itself over the benefits, ensuring the APXGP team would be well-managed during his absence at the Baja 1000. This also solidified Ruben’s role as team owner, and Sonny assured Kate he’d see her again soon. The story feels complete, and any attempt to add more would feel forced.

To truly preserve the impact of F1, it’s best to let it stand alone as a groundbreaking, record-breaking film. It proves that movies made for adults, without relying on existing franchises, can still be huge successes. Trying to turn this unique cinematic experience into a series of films would diminish its special quality, just like making a sequel often does.

The Biggest Lesson For Apple Studios Here Is To Focus On Original, Excellent Stories

While revisiting classic stories can be fun, audiences are really craving something new and original, as films like F1 demonstrate. Turning this film into a franchise would risk losing the unique qualities that made it special, ultimately leading to the same diminishing returns seen in many racing series with each subsequent sequel.

I think now is the time to hold back on doing a full-blown franchise with F1. The first movie was a huge success and really captured what the sport is all about, and Apple needs to protect that. Turning it into a series of sequels could easily backfire – a few bad films could make people lose interest in F1 altogether. Instead, Apple Studios should learn from what’s working with audiences right now and use that to create fresh, original movies that have the same magic. They could explore any genre, but what people really want is powerful, new, and well-made films that will be remembered for years to come. That’s where Apple can really shine.

The film industry should reconsider its reliance on sequels and whether constantly turning movies into franchises is actually a good strategy. This particular film has the potential to be a truly special, one-time event, and shouldn’t be compromised by the pursuit of profit – especially if Apple decides to move forward with it.

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2026-02-11 05:40