On June 19, 2025, Hollywood star Tom Cruise surprised the motorsports world with an article in the American magazine Variety , in which he expressed his admiration for Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 world champion. Cruise, known for his roles in action films such as Top Gun and Mission: Impossible , praised Verstappen for his unparalleled talent and mentality. He also hinted at a possible future collaboration with the Dutch driver, a statement that has Formula 1 fans and film buffs alike in suspense. With the recent premiere of F1: The Movie , in which Cruise has a cameo, his interest in motorsports only seems to have increased.
In the article, Cruise described Verstappen as “a phenomenon who has taken Formula 1 to a new level.” He praised the 27-year-old not only for his on-track performance, but also for his determination and focus, qualities Cruise recognizes in his own career. “Max drives with a precision and passion that reminds me of the intensity it takes to run a film set. He is an inspiration,” Cruise wrote. The praise comes as Verstappen is back in the spotlight, following a strong second-place finish in the Canadian Grand Prix and his preparations for the upcoming race in Austria. His fourth world title in 2024, achieved despite a challenging season with internal struggles at Red Bull, underscores his status as one of the sport’s greats.
Cruise’s connection to Formula 1 began with his involvement in F1: The Movie , a project that captured the glamour and excitement of the sport. While Verstappen did not have a major role in the film, like fellow drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, he did serve as an advisor behind the scenes. Cruise, who has a passion for speed and stunts himself, met Verstappen during filming at Silverstone. “I’ve seen how Max works, how he pushes his team, how he perfects every corner. That’s something I respect,” he wrote. The actor then hinted at a future project: “I would love to work with him, maybe on something that combines motorsport and film in a way that’s never been done before.”
Speculation about what this collaboration could entail has already begun to ramp up. On social media sites like X, fans have suggested that Cruise may be considering an action film with Verstappen in a starring role or acting as a stunt consultant. Given Cruise’s reputation for performing his own stunts and his love of authentic action, a project with Verstappen could offer a unique blend of Hollywood spectacle and Formula 1 realism. Others have speculated that Verstappen could make a cameo in a future Mission: Impossible film, putting his driving skills to use for a high-octane chase scene. While concrete plans have yet to be confirmed, Cruise’s public endorsement has garnered attention from both the film and motorsport communities.
Verstappen himself reacted calmly to Cruise’s statements. In an interview with RacingNews365 after his GT3 test in Spa-Francorchamps, he said: “It’s cool to get appreciation from someone like Tom Cruise. I’m focused on racing now, but who knows what the future holds.” This typical Verstappen reaction reflects his focus on the present, as he prepares for a competitive season with Red Bull, which despite internal challenges delivered its fourth title in 2024. His contract runs until 2028, but rumours of a possible move to teams such as Mercedes or Aston Martin continue to circulate, which only increases interest in his future.
For Cruise, Formula 1 offers a new arena to combine his passion for adrenaline and storytelling. His involvement in F1: The Movie and his praise for Verstappen suggest he sees the sport as a source of inspiration for future projects. As Verstappen aims for a fifth title in 2025, the motorsport world remains curious about what a collaboration with a Hollywood icon like Cruise could bring. For now, it remains speculation, but the combination of Verstappen’s peerless driving skills and Cruise’s flair for spectacle promises something big.
