Tom Cruise talks his love of Formula 1

It should come as no surprise that Tom Cruise is indeed an adrenaline junkie, as highlighted by his expressed love for Formula 1.

Cruise is currently on a worldwide tour promoting the release of Top Gun: Maverick which has already broken box office records to become the best release of his career.

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According to Variety, the sequel to Top Gun grossed $156 million in its opening weekend.

In Maverick, Cruise once again performs death-defying stunts to not only get the best shot possible, but also to feed his need for speed.

Speaking to Channel 4, he revealed that he has been a fan of another dangerous hobby/sport in the form of F1, having previously been allowed a test run in a Red Bull after being coached by David Coulthard.

"I've watched these guys race their whole career. I love Formula 1, I love racing," he said, pointing to Coulthard and Mark Webber.

"I've lived here, in England, for many many years. The first time I came to England was in the 80s.

"I grew up watching Nascar at that time in the United States in the 60s and 70s, and Indy. It's an amazing sport (F1).

"We've talked about the discipline it takes. There are constant challenges and pressure, and you have to really
stay on top of your game.

"You have to be present, whether it stunts or making movies. You need to be ready for anything."

Does Cruise pilot a jet in Top Gun: Maverick?

Cruise went on to reveal that he was indeed allowed to pilot an F-18 fighter jet in his new movie, but that experienced pilots were also present just in case.

"We have Top Gun pilots that were flying in front. So what we did, they let me have a stick in the back, with the throttle," he explained.

"So there were times they let me fly, fly in formation. These pilots are extraordinary.

"I was able to fly the F-18s at times, but those guys were doing the manoeuvres and we were acting."

As part of the interview with Channel 4, Cruise took part in a 'dog fight', albeit on the ground, in a Porsche up against Coulthard and Webber, with presenter Steve Jones also along for the ride.

You can watch the video below: