Hollywood icon Tom Cruise has ignited intrigue within the motorsport and film communities by publicly expressing admiration for four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen. In an article published by Variety on June 19, 2025, Cruise lauded Verstappen’s extraordinary talent and unyielding mentality, even hinting at a possible future collaboration. Known for his adrenaline-fueled roles in Top Gun and the Mission: Impossible franchise, Cruise described the Dutch racer as a phenomenon who has elevated Formula 1 to new heights, declaring his desire to work with him in an innovative project that merges motorsport and cinema.
Cruise’s praise came shortly after Verstappen’s impressive second-place finish at the Canadian Grand Prix and ahead of his preparations for Austria. In his article, Cruise compared Verstappen’s precision and passion behind the wheel to the intensity required on a film set, calling him an inspiration. Verstappen’s fourth world title in 2024—achieved amid internal turbulence at Red Bull—further underscores his standing as one of the sport’s modern greats, and his relentless pursuit of success resonates strongly with Cruise’s own ethos of excellence.
The actor’s association with Formula 1 deepened through his cameo appearance in F1: The Movie, a cinematic portrayal of the sport’s glamour and pressure. Although Verstappen did not feature prominently in the film like Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, he served as an advisor during production. Cruise revealed that he observed Verstappen’s meticulous approach during filming at Silverstone, fueling his desire for a future collaboration. “I would love to work with him—something that combines motorsport and cinema in a way never seen before,” Cruise wrote, sparking a wave of speculation online.
Social media erupted with conjecture, with fans imagining Verstappen starring in an action blockbuster or contributing as a stunt consultant. Others floated the idea of a cameo in an upcoming Mission: Impossible installment, showcasing Verstappen’s skill in a high-octane chase sequence. While neither Cruise nor Verstappen has confirmed concrete plans, the prospect of blending Hollywood spectacle with Formula 1 authenticity has captured imaginations worldwide, bridging two worlds driven by speed and precision.
Verstappen, for his part, responded with characteristic composure, telling RacingNews365 after a GT3 test in Spa: “It’s cool to get appreciation from someone like Tom Cruise. I’m focused on racing now, but who knows what the future brings.” With his Red Bull contract secure until 2028, Verstappen remains committed to adding a fifth title in 2025, even as rumors swirl about potential moves to Mercedes or Aston Martin. Meanwhile, Cruise’s fascination with the sport suggests this dialogue is far from over. If these two titans of speed and cinema do unite, the result promises to be nothing short of spectacular.
About the Author
