F1 movie praised for helping generate record $513M Formula 1 team payout
Published on Aug 19, 2025 at 4:06 AM (UTC+4)
by Keelin McNamara
Last updated on Aug 18, 2025 at 4:07 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Emma Matthews
The F1 movie has been an absolutely massive, unquestionable success.
It has grossed more than $590 million since its release in cinemas back in June.
The effects of the success of the movie haven’t just been limited to Hollywood, though.
It has, in fact, directly helped generate a record $513 million payout for Formula 1 teams in the last three months alone.
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F1 CEO sings praises of movie’s impact
The F1 movie is rightly being revered and celebrated for its success at the box office this year.
Joseph Kosinski’s film has generated almost $600 million in revenue against a $2-300 million budget.
Liberty Media is the commercial rights holder for the Formula 1 championship.
It has reported revenues of $1.226 billion for the three-month period up to June 30th.
This is an enormous rebound from the $403 million reported for Jan-Mar of this year.
Naturally, Liberty Media and the Formula 1 championship have been singing the praises of the movie.
And it is for good reason – because the F1 movie has led to a record team pay-out in Apr-Jun of 2025.
In fact, the movie has contributed to a record $513 million in prize money being paid out to Formula 1 teams this year.
“This season has showcased phenomenal racing, with multiple teams and drivers competing at the very highest level,” Formula 1 president and CEO Stefano Domenicali said.
“The F1 movie from Apple debuted to well-deserved accolades, marking the largest box office theatrical release for any streaming service and captivating audiences of both core and new F1 fans alike.”
F1 movie contributes to record prize money for teams
Prize money payments are distributed under the confidential Concorde Agreement, and are calculated based on previous season standings.
Estimates believe that McLaren, the reigning constructors’ champions, earned around $88 million.
Sauber, whose cars finished 10th last season, is estimated to have earned around $37 million in prize money.
The first half of 2025 has seen Formula 1 pay out over $627 million in total prize money.
While Apr-Jun revenue was boosted by the F1 movie, Liberty Media signaled the next few months are unlikely to match it due to the summer break and seasonal revenue patterns.
Last year’s Q3 brought in $861 million USD, broadly in line with 2023.
Are you surprised by the impact that the F1 movie has had on the championship itself?
Keelin McNamara is a content writer at Supercar Blondie from Ireland, covering cars, technology, and lifestyle. Despite being a Law graduate, he discovered his passion for journalism during the COVID-19 pandemic, and has worked in the industry ever since. Outside of work, he is an avid MotoGP fan, and is a self-confessed addict of the sport.
