Despite being unable to attend the Oscars ceremony in Hollywood on Sunday night, Lewis Hamilton's Formula One film secured a prestigious Academy Award for Best Sound. The blockbuster movie, which was nominated in four categories, continues its award-winning streak following earlier successes at the Grammys and BAFTAs.
Oscar Triumph for High-Grossing Sports Film
The 2025 'F1' movie, co-produced by Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton and featuring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris, claimed the Oscar for Best Sound at the 2026 Academy Awards. The film's sound team, including Gareth John, Al Nelson, Gwendolyn Yates Whittle, Gary A. Rizzo, and Juan Peralta, were honored for their outstanding work.
Multiple Nominations and Previous Accolades
The racing drama received nominations for Best Picture, Best Film Editing, Best Sound, and Best Visual Effects at this year's Oscars. This follows its recent Grammy win for Chris Stapleton's song 'Bad As I Used To Be' and a BAFTA award for Best Sound last month.
Since its release in June 2025, the film has become the highest-grossing sports movie in history, earning over $630 million worldwide at the box office. Its commercial success has been matched by critical recognition across multiple award ceremonies.
Hamilton's Racing Commitments Prevent Attendance
The 41-year-old British racing legend was unable to join the cast and crew at the Los Angeles ceremony because he was competing in the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai. Hamilton finished third in the race, behind winner Kimi Antonelli and fellow Briton George Russell, marking his first podium finish for Ferrari after 26 attempts.
Despite the 15-hour time difference between Shanghai and Los Angeles, the 12.5-hour flight made it impossible for Hamilton to attend the Oscars. The driver revealed he had explored "every way to get there in time" but ultimately couldn't make the transcontinental journey work.
Missed Red Carpet Opportunity with Kim Kardashian
Hamilton's absence meant he missed what could have been his first public red carpet appearance with rumored girlfriend Kim Kardashian. The reality television star, who attends the Oscars annually, was expected at this year's ceremony.
While neither Hamilton nor Kardashian has publicly confirmed their relationship, they have been photographed together on multiple occasions since January. The pair were seen checking into Estelle Manor hotel in the Cotswolds and attended the Super Bowl together in early February, where they appeared cozy in the stands.
The F1 film's Oscar victory adds another significant achievement to Hamilton's growing portfolio beyond racing, demonstrating his successful transition into film production while maintaining his competitive Formula One career with Ferrari.
