On June 19, 2025, Hollywood star Tom Cruise surprised the motorsport world with an article in the American magazineVariety, in which he expressed his admiration for Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 world champion. Cruise, known for its roles in action films such asTop GuninMission: Impossible, Verstappen praised for his unparalleled talent and mentality. In addition, he hinted on a possible future cooperation with the Dutch driver, a statement that keeps both Formula 1 fans and film lovers in suspense. With the recent premiere ofF1: The Movie, in which Cruise has a cameo, his interest in motorsport has only increased.
In the article, Cruise Verstappen described as “a phenomenon that Formula 1 has raised to a new level.” He praised the 27-year-old driver not only for his performance on the track, but also for his determination and focus, characteristics that Cruise recognizes in his own career. “Max drives with a precision and passion that reminds me of the intensity needed to lead a film set. He is an inspiration,” wrote Cruise. This praise comes at a time when Verstappen is again in the spotlight, after his strong second place in the Grand Prix of Canada 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, underlines his status as one of the great ones in sport.
Cruise’s connection with Formula 1 started with his involvement inF1: The Movie, a project that captures the glamor and tension of the sport. Although Verstappen did not play a major role in the film, such as fellow drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, he was an adviser behind the scenes. Cruise, who himself has a passion for speed and stunts, met Verstappen during the recordings on the Silverstone circuit. “I have seen how Max works, how he pushes his team and how he perfects every turn. That is something I respect,” he wrote. The actor then hinted on a future project: “I would love to work with him, perhaps something that combines motor sport and film in a way that has never been done before.”
The speculation about what this collaboration could entail have already erupted. On social media, such as X, fans suggest that cruise may think of an action film in which Verstappen plays a leading role or acts as a stunt advisor. Given Cruise’s reputation for performing his own stunts and his love for authentic action, a project with Verstappen could yield a unique mix of Hollywood spectacle and Formula 1 realism. Others speculate that Verstappen could make a cameo in a futureMission: Impossible-Film, where his driving skills are used for a spectacular chase scene. Although concrete plans have not yet been confirmed, Cruise’s open support has attracted the attention of both the film and the motorsport community.
Verstappen himself reacted soberly to Cruise’s statements. In an interview withRacingNews365After his GT3 test in Spa-Francorchamps, he said: “It’s cool to get appreciation from someone like Tom Cruise. I am now focusing on racing, but who knows what the future brings.” This typical Verstappen reaction reflects his focus on the present, while preparing for a competitive season with Red Bull, which, despite internal challenges, yielded his fourth title in 2024. His contract runs until 2028, but rumors about a possible switch to teams such as Mercedes or Aston Martin keep circulating, which only increases interest in his future.
For Cruise, Formula 1 offers a new arena to combine its passion for adrenaline and storytelling. His involvement withF1: The MovieAnd his praise for Verstappen suggest that he sees the sport as a source of inspiration for future projects. While Verstappen focuses on his fifth title in 2025, the motorsport world remains curious about what a collaboration with a Hollywood icon could bring as a cruise. For now it remains with speculation, but the combination of Verstappens unparalleled driving skills and cruise’s flair for spectacle promises something big.
