Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc has insisted the presence of Brad Pitt filming his new Formula 1 movie at races this year will not be a distraction.
Pitt is starring in a new Hollywood blockbuster about F1 where he plays a veteran driver who comes out of retirement to compete alongside a rookie. Lewis Hamilton is helping produce the movie and it has been revealed that filming will take place on race weekends, with Pitt set to drive on the track at Silverstone at the upcoming British Grand Prix.
The 59-year-old actor is expected to be on the track in between practice sessions when no other cars will be in action. And when asked if the presence of Pitt and a film crew would distract the drivers, Leclerc insisted: "No, I don't think it is.
"In the end, one more camera or one less camera, I don't think we realise it that much. I think it's amazing for the sport, though, I think it's great.
"It gives us really big visibility, big reach to people that might not know or might not be interested so much into Formula 1. Just for them to understand it in a better way, in a more lucrative way.
"And with the movie, I think is the best possible way. So no, or at least for me, it won't add any pressure, but I don't think [it will] for anybody as we are getting used to having cameras around."
Explaining his involvement in the film, Hamilton revealed he is focused on ensuring the script is "authentic". Speaking ahead of the Miami Grand Prix, the seven-time F1 world champion said: "I don't know absolutely every single plan with all the things we'll be doing in the paddock, I'm more focused on making sure the script is where it needs to be.
"That's where all the time is currently, going through the script. We've got a really great and diverse cast. Joe's focus is to make us as embedded in this sport as possible.
"For me it's to make sure it's authentic, and that all of you and racing fans see its authenticity and say 'this is believable', and have a view of racing from a different perspective than you might see on TV. I'm spending a lot of time right now helping Joe and the team get the script right, it's an amazing process and I'm really enjoying it."
