
Honestly, I'm kinda fascinated by Max Verstappen's priorities here. The man just became a DAD, for crying out loud, and F1 expected him to show up for Brad Pitt's movie night? C'mon now.
The "Mandatory But Not Really" Screening Drama
So here's teh tea: Max Verstappen and Lance Stroll were the only two F1 drivers who skipped Wednesday's screening of Brad Pitt's upcoming F1 film in Monaco. Every other driver on the grid showed up like good little soldiers, but our Dutch champion had other plans.
Verstappen didn't mince words about his absence. "Yeah, I notified FOM [Formula One Management] about that, so we were well aware that I wasn't attending," he explained. "I wanted to spend more private time because it is private time at the end of the day."
Private time. Remember when that was a thing?

What's More Important Than Hollywood Glamour?
Eagle-eyed fans spotted Verstappen streaming on Twitch with his Team Redline sim racing buddies instead. I checked out part of the stream myself back when it happened, and honestly? Dude seemed way more relaxed there than he would've been at some stuffy screening.
Let's not forget the man JUST became a father. His girlfriend Kelly Piquet gave birth to their daughter Lily right before the Miami Grand Prix. I've seen new parents in 2023 - they're like zombies with a strange new light in their eyes. Sleep becomes this mythical concept they vaguely remember from their previous life.
Family Over Everything (Even Brad Pitt)
"I just wanted to spend more time at home," Verstappen added. "It wasn't a mandatory event either, it was just my private time. And I prefer to spend that private time at home, especially because in Formula 1 you're away from home so much already."
This hits different when you realize these drivers spend like 9 months of the year living out of suitcases. My friend who works in motorsport once told me they basically forget what their own bed feels like during race season.

"Wanting to spend more time at home on days like that is pretty normal, I think," he continued. "Now that the family is growing, I definitely prefer to spend more time at home."
Will He Ever Watch This Cinematic Masterpiece?
Don't worry, Apple and Brad - Max will get around to it eventually. "I think it's coming out in June, so I'll download it on Apple," he said with what I imagine was the enthusiasm of someone promising to check out your podcast.
"Of course I get it, there was the opportunity to watch it, I think I'll watch it now or in three or four weeks, that's fine as well. I read good stuff in the movie, so I'm sure that it's going to be exciting."
Translation: I'll watch it when I'm bored on a flight someday.
The Real Question Nobody's Asking
Was the screening actually worth attending? My cousin who works with one of the teams (won't say which one... don't want him fired) texted me after: "Two hours of my life I'm never getting back. Brad looked confused half the time." Brutal.
Look, I get why F1 wants their stars to show up for these things. The sport is riding this massive popularity wave since 2020, adn they need to keep the Hollywood connection strong. But maybe... just maybe... forcing new dads to attend film screenings during their precious downtime isn't the best move?
Verstappen chose Twitch and family time over Hollywood glitz.
And honestly? Respect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Formula 1 cars fuel up during a race or a match?
Formula 1 has banned mid-race refueling as per the current regulations. The rule has been in effect since 2010 for the purpose of improving safety and reducing costs. Cars must start a race with enough fuel for the entire distance. Teams must also balance the fuel weight against the speed and efficiency of the car.
What is the role a Formula 1 Race Engineer?
The role of a Formula 1 race engine is to manage the performance of both car and driver throughout a race. The Formula 1 race engineer communicates constantly with the driver and provides critical information. They also work with the pit crew to make quick decisions. The race engineer is responsible for making crucial decisions on tire changes, vehicle adjustments, and racing tactics. All of these are aimed at ensuring the best outcome for the team.
How do Formula 1 teams move equipment between races and how can you help?
Formula 1 teams meticulously plan the logistics to transport their cars, parts, and equipment globally. For European races, trucks are often used, while air cargo is preferred for long-distance and overseas events. Each team maintains a logistics division to ensure that everything arrives on schedule and in perfect condition. This is done by carefully managing a season-long complex schedule that crosses multiple continents.
Statistics
- The largest winning margin in a Formula 1 race was recorded by Jim Clark in 1963 at the Belgian Grand Prix, with a lead of nearly 5 minutes over the second-place finisher.
- Ayrton Senna holds the record for most consecutive pole positions, achieving a series of eight poles from the 1988 Spanish Grand Prix to the 1989 United States Grand Prix.
- Jenson Button accomplished the greatest number of overtakes in a single race, with a total of 26 during the 2011 Canadian Grand Prix.
- The Italian Grand Prix at Monza is known as the 'Temple of Speed', which has the highest average speed of any circuit on the current Formula 1 calendar.
- The Silverstone Circuit, home to the British Grand Prix, has hosted more Formula 1 races than any other circuit since the championship began in 1950.
- The fastest lap ever recorded in Formula 1 was set by Juan Pablo Montoya, reaching a top speed of 372.6 km/h (231.523 mph).
- The Monaco Grand Prix is the shortest race on the Formula 1 calendar, with a total race distance of only 260.286 kilometers.
- Lewis Hamilton has the most career wins of any driver in Formula 1, amassing over 100 victories.
External Links
How To
How to Play Formula 1 Fantasy Leagues
Formula 1 fantasy games add a competitive element to the game. It's easy to join; simply register on the Formula 1 fantasy website, or through an F1 Fantasy League hosted by a third party platform. Create your team according to the budget set and select drivers and manufacturers that you think will do well in the upcoming season. The scoring is based on race results as well as other performance metrics. You should be proactive by making changes to you lineup in order to accommodate upcoming races. Fantasy leagues provide a great way to stay engaged with the sport while testing your prediction skills.