To celebrate the Oscars nominations for F1, McLaren Racing has officially released the full behind-the-scenes video of Brad Pitt’s McLaren MCL60 test drive. Released on March 15, 2026, the “Unboxed” episode provides an intimate look at how the Hollywood icon transitioned from a fictional racer to a real-world pilot of a 2023-spec machine.
Preparing for the Brad Pitt McLaren MCL60 Test
Before hitting the track at the Circuit of the Americas (COTA), the journey began at the McLaren Technology Centre. The Brad Pitt McLaren MCL60 preparation involved intensive simulator sessions to master the car’s complex energy recovery systems. Under the guidance of Lando Norris, Pitt learned the nuances of braking zones and high-speed cornering, ensuring he was ready for the immense G-forces of a modern F1 car.
The McLaren Unboxed episode reveals the depth of this training:
- Simulator Sessions: Pitt spent hours in the team’s simulator, mastering the MCL60’s complex controls, including the specialized clutch release and the “C” (recharge) button.
- Expert Coaching: Current McLaren star Lando Norris personally guided Pitt, providing tips on braking points and managing the immense downforce of the 2023-spec car.
- Seat Fit: Engineers performed a custom seat fit to ensure Pitt could handle the extreme G-forces experienced in the high-speed corners of the Austin circuit.
“What a Rush”: The 197 MPH Debut
When the day of the test arrived, Pitt took the MCL60—the same car that secured nine podiums for McLaren in 2023—out for a private session alongside commentator Martin Brundle.
The footage captures Pitt hitting a top speed of 197 mph (317 km/h) on the back straight. Upon returning to the garage, a “giddy” Pitt jokingly expressed frustration at missing the 200 mph mark by just three miles per hour, telling McLaren CEO Zak Brown, “It hurts me a little bit”. He described the sensation of downforce as a “unique feeling and an absolute high,” noting that he didn’t sleep for 36 hours afterward due to the adrenaline.
A New Standard for Racing Realism
The decision to put Pitt in a genuine F1 car reflects the production’s commitment to authenticity. While the film’s on-screen racing features modified Formula 2 cars (dressed as the fictional APXGP team), this real-world test allowed Pitt to fully appreciate the “presence” and focus required to operate a top-tier racing machine.
The Full Unboxed Episode is now available on YouTube, offering fans the most intimate look yet at the intersection of Hollywood glamour and elite motorsport engineering.
