Ed Sheeran accelerates with original song 'Drive' on “F1” soundtrack

Ed Sheeran is a devoted Formula 1 enthusiast. His passion for racing even led him to join George Russell on a high-speed lap following Russells fifth Grand Prix victory in October. Sheeran described the experience as terrifying, a sensation that clearly fueled the energy behind his new track, Drive, featured on the F1 soundtrack and nominated for a Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media.

The song, co-written by Sheeran alongside producers Blake Slatkin and John Mayer, accompanies the films climactic moments and end credits, providing a high-octane backdrop as Brad Pitts character, Sonny Hayes, races across the screen. Slatkin, a Grammy-winning collaborator on Sheerans 2025 album Play, explained that seeing the film footage instantly inspired them. We felt that rush you get when watching something intense, he told Entertainment Weekly. Sheeran added, It almost makes you feel like youre part of the cast, which is a rare achievement for a film.

The movie opens with Led Zeppelins Whole Lotta Love, which served as a sonic reference for the closing track. Sheeran revealed that director Joseph Kosinski and producer Jerry Bruckheimer requested a guitar-driven sound with energetic riffs and vocals. I made a list of phrases used throughout the film so I could weave them into the song, Sheeran explained.

John Mayer contributed the songs signature riff. John grabbed a guitar with some distortion, and that was literally the first thing he played, Slatkin recounted. From there, we built the melody around it, Sheeran added.

The recording featured a lineup of acclaimed musicians, including Dave Grohl and Rami Jaffee of Foo Fighters on drums and keyboards, and legendary bassist Pino Palladino. It was a dream band, Slatkin said. Sheeran noted the excitement of recording live with such top-tier talent. Dave is part of two of the biggest bands ever, and Pino, Rami, and John are all exceptional. As a songwriter, working with this caliber of musicians is an honor.

Director Kosinski praised how quickly the track came together. Ed asked for some phrases from the film to work with, and two days later, he sent back the demo. The song became the perfect conclusion to Sonnys journey. Their talent is astoundingthey absolutely nailed it.

Sheeran, who loves both films and racing, expressed his joy at being part of the project. Being involved has been amazing, he said. The track has also taken on a life of its own in the racing world: Its even become a podium anthem, which is pretty exciting.

Author's Commentary: Ed Sheeran and the Fusion of Music with Formula 1

Ed Sheeran's dedication to Formula 1 goes beyond mere fandom—it has directly influenced his creative output. His experience riding with George Russell after the British driver's fifth Grand Prix win clearly informed the energy and tempo of his new track, "Drive," which now serves as both a soundtrack piece and a Grammy-nominated work.

The collaboration with producers Blake Slatkin and John Mayer demonstrates a deliberate effort to mirror the intensity of racing on screen. From the guitar-driven riffs requested by director Joseph Kosinski to the integration of phrases from the film, every element was designed to heighten the cinematic experience.

Recording with top-tier musicians such as Dave Grohl, Rami Jaffee, and Pino Palladino elevated the track, providing live instrumentation that complements Sheeran's vision. Kosinski's acknowledgment of the rapid demo development highlights Sheeran's efficiency and alignment with the film's narrative needs.

"Drive" exemplifies how music can extend beyond entertainment into cultural moments, becoming a podium anthem in Formula 1 itself. This cross-disciplinary achievement underscores Sheeran's unique position at the intersection of music, film, and sport.

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• Ed Sheeran puts pedal to the metal on “F1” original song 'Drive'