Brad Pitt is enjoying the global success of his latest film F1, which has become a box office hit internationally. While speculation about a sequel — potentially featuring Tom Cruise — continues online, Pitt recently shed light on why he and Cruise never ended up starring together in Ford v Ferrari, according to Variety. Originally, F1 director Joseph Kosinski had pitched Ford v Ferrari with Pitt and Cruise as the leads. However, budget constraints prevented the project from moving forward with that casting. Eventually, James Mangold took over as director, and the film was made with Christian Bale and Matt Damon in the lead roles.

In a recent interview with The National, Pitt explained another reason why the collaboration with Cruise didn’t happen. “Tom and I were attached to Ford v Ferrari with Joe [Kosinski] about ten years before the version that was made — which turned out great,” Pitt said, as quoted by Variety. He added, “The real reason it didn’t come together is that we both wanted to drive. Tom wanted to play Carroll Shelby, and I wanted to play Ken Miles. But once Tom realized that Shelby wouldn’t be doing much driving in the story, it just didn’t work out.”

Now, with F1 having earned over $144 million worldwide, talks of a sequel are underway, with Apple reportedly considering a follow-up. Pitt said he’s open to returning but hinted that the sequel’s focus should remain on Damson Idris’s character, Joshua Pierce, and the team’s journey toward a championship.

“I’d love to drive again — selfishly speaking,” Pitt admitted. “But the spotlight needs to stay on Joshua and the team. As for my character, Sonny, maybe he’s out on the Bonneville Salt Flats setting speed records. Beyond that, I’m not sure yet.” Directed by Joseph Kosinski, F1 features Damson Idris, Javier Bardem, and Kate McKenna alongside Pitt. The film premiered in theaters on June 27, 2025.