Damson Idris Appointed as Global Brand Ambassador for Formula 1

Damson Idris's rise in the entertainment industry has taken an exciting turn as he has now been named the Global Brand Ambassador for Formula 1, just in time for the 2026 season.

This milestone comes on the heels of the extraordinary success of 'F1: The Movie,' in which Idris starred alongside Brad Pitt, portraying rookie driver Joshua Pearce, opposite Pitt's character, Sonny Hayes. The film remarkably grossed over $630 million worldwide at the box office, setting a record as the most financially successful sports film and receiving an Oscar nomination for Best Picture.

Idris's affiliation with Formula 1 extends beyond his film debut. His appearance at the 2025 Met Gala showcased his deep connection to the sport; he donned a bespoke white Tommy Hilfiger race car suit, complete with a striking F1 helmet adorned with Swarovski crystals, which he dramatically revealed beneath a lavish red tartan tuxedo inspired by his Nigerian roots and a tribute to his late mother, Silifat Idris.

The announcement of his ambassadorship was made by Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, who expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "I’m delighted to welcome Damson Idris officially to the Formula 1 family. Following his starring role in 'F1: The Movie,' which made history at the box office and helped bring our sport to new audiences, he is joining us as an official Global Brand Ambassador. In Formula 1, we are all about authenticity, and Damson is passionate about the sport."

Idris himself expressed his excitement regarding the new role, stating, "I’ve always been drawn to spaces where culture, performance, and precision meet, and Formula 1 sits right at the centre of that. I had an enormous amount of respect for it before making the film, but getting closer to it gave me a real understanding of the innovation and intensity. Being part of this world now means a lot to me, and I’m proud to represent something that inspires and connects people all over the world."

In his capacity as Global Brand Ambassador, Idris will participate in Grands Prix events and engage in promotional activities to attract a younger fanbase to the sport. He recently featured in Formula 1’s latest campaign, 'All To Drive For,' along with all 22 drivers, which was released shortly before the announcement.

Idris is also set to appear in Tomi Adeyemi’s adaptation of 'Children of Blood and Bone,' scheduled for release in January 2027, and will portray Miles Davis in 'Miles & Juliette' by director Bill Pohlad.