Eddy Cue and Formula 1 CEO Tease Potential 'F1: The Movie' Sequel at Apple TV Press Day

During Apple's recent press day event, the company showcased its upcoming slate of content for 2026, but the most intriguing moment came when Apple SVP of Services Eddy Cue and Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali addressed the possibility of a sequel to F1: The Movie, Apple TV+'s surprise hit that has become the platform's most successful film to date.

The Sequel Tease That Has Everyone Talking

The moment unfolded toward the end of the press event when Cue read a question from attending journalists: "Is there going to be another Formula 1 movie given the success and how great the first movie was?"

Domenicali responded first with characteristic diplomacy: "Stay tuned. We're going to tell you something more in the future. Never say never. But we need to digest more the success of this movie because it was something unique. And if you want to think of a new one, it has to be really, very, very good. Therefore, if this will happen, it will not be for next year. But maybe next year we're going to be here [at the press day], and hopefully we have something more to announce [then]."

Cue took a different approach, using the moment to highlight Apple's exclusive streaming deal with Formula 1: "I've got a great announcement for it. We've got 24 F1 movies this year on Apple TV," he said, referencing the number of F1 races in the upcoming season. "I don't know the ending, and so it is the best unscripted drama that there could be in the world."

Why a Sequel Makes Perfect Sense

The executives' openness about sequel possibilities marks a significant shift from typical Hollywood coyness. Given the film's remarkable performance, this transparency isn't surprising. F1: The Movie has already garnered 15 awards, including a Best Country Solo Performance win at the recent Grammys, and earned nominations for Best Motion Picture of the Year, Best Sound, Best Visual Effects, and Best Film Editing at the upcoming Academy Awards.

Industry analysts note that Apple's decision to have Cue read this specific question during the press event was likely strategic. The question's placement at the end of the Q&A, combined with the executives' willingness to engage with it, suggests Apple wants to maintain momentum around the franchise while carefully managing expectations.

The Business Case for a Sequel

From a business perspective, a sequel to F1: The Movie represents a logical next step for Apple TV+. The original film has proven that Apple can compete with traditional studios in producing major theatrical releases that drive subscriptions to its streaming service. The movie's success has also strengthened Apple's position in its exclusive F1 streaming deal, creating a synergistic relationship between the film and live sports content.

The timing is particularly interesting given Apple's broader content strategy. With the company investing heavily in original programming and exclusive sports rights, F1: The Movie has become a flagship property that bridges entertainment and sports content in a way that few other properties can.

What We Know About the Original Film

• F1: The Movie* starred Brad Pitt as a fictional Formula 1 driver and featured real F1 teams, drivers, and race footage

• The film was shot during actual Grand Prix weekends, giving it unprecedented authenticity

• It marked Apple's most ambitious theatrical release to date

• The movie has been praised for its technical achievements and authentic portrayal of F1 racing

The Future of F1 Content on Apple TV+

Whether or not a direct sequel materializes, Apple's commitment to F1 content appears stronger than ever. The company's exclusive streaming rights for F1 races in the US have created a unique content ecosystem where live sports, documentary-style coverage, and scripted entertainment all feed into each other.

For fans of the original film and F1 enthusiasts alike, the executives' comments suggest that Apple and Formula 1 are exploring ways to expand their partnership beyond just movies and live races. The success of F1: The Movie has demonstrated that there's a substantial audience for premium F1 content, and both Apple and Formula 1 appear eager to capitalize on that momentum.

As Domenicali hinted, any potential sequel would likely be announced at next year's press event, giving Apple time to develop something that lives up to the original film's success while potentially incorporating new storylines and characters that reflect the evolving world of Formula 1 racing.

The question now isn't whether Apple will make another F1 movie, but when and how they'll approach it to maintain the franchise's momentum while delivering something fresh and compelling for audiences who have come to expect excellence from both Apple and Formula 1.

Watch F1: The Movie on Apple TV+

Apple TV+ is available for $12.99 per month and features hit TV shows and movies like F1: The Movie, Pluribus, Severance, The Studio, The Morning Show, Shrinking, and Silo.