F1: The Movie Wins Top Prize at 2026 CAS Awards – Full Winners List

The roar of the engines wasn’t just on the track; it was felt in the sound mixing rooms. “F1: The Movie” took home the top prize for Outstanding Achievement in Sound Mixing for a live action feature at the 62nd Annual Cinema Audio Society (CAS) Awards, held Saturday, March 7, at the Beverly Hilton in Los Angeles. The win recognizes the meticulous work of the sound team in bringing the high-octane world of Formula 1 racing to life on the big screen.

This marks a significant achievement for the film, which faced stiff competition in a year boasting impressive sound design across numerous releases. The CAS Awards, now in their sixth decade, are considered a bellwether for excellence in sound mixing, often foreshadowing nominations and wins at the Academy Awards. You can find a complete list of winners on the Cinema Audio Society’s website.

Beyond the Finish Line: A Team Effort

The winning team behind “F1” included Gareth John (Production Sound Mixer), Gary A. Rizzo CAS and Juan Peralta (Re-Recording Mixers), Alan Meyerson CAS (Scoring Mixer), Michael Miller CAS (ADR Mixer), and Foley Mixers Dennis Leonard and Elizabeth Marston. Sound mixing is a collaborative art, and this award acknowledges the combined skill of these professionals in capturing and crafting the immersive auditory experience of the film. The intricate layering of engine sounds, crowd noise, and dramatic score all contribute to the film’s visceral impact.

Gary A. Rizzo, a veteran re-recording mixer, has a particularly impressive track record. He previously won an Academy Award for his work on “Dunkirk” and has been nominated for several others, including “Top Gun: Maverick.” His expertise in creating realistic and impactful soundscapes undoubtedly played a crucial role in “F1’s” success. Juan Peralta’s credits include work on “Ford v Ferrari,” another racing film that benefited from exceptional sound design.

A Broader Spectrum of Sonic Excellence

“F1” wasn’t the only project celebrated at the CAS Awards. The ceremony highlighted a diverse range of sound achievements across film and television. “The Pitt” earned the award for One Hour TV Series, whereas “Becoming Led Zeppelin” was recognized in the documentary category. “Adolescence” took home the prize for Non-Theatrical Motion Picture or Limited Series, and “Billy Joel: And So It Goes” was honored for a non-fiction music special. Animation also had its moment, with “KPop Demon Hunters” winning in its category. “The Studio” was awarded for a half hour TV series.

The awards also included honorary prizes. Guillermo del Toro, the acclaimed director of “Frankenstein” and other visually stunning films, received the Filmmaker Award. Skip Lievsay, a sound master known for his work on “Gravity” and “No Country for Old Men,” was presented with the Career Achievement Award, recognizing his lasting contributions to the field. As IndieWire reported, Chris Hardwick hosted the ceremony.

The Rising Profile of Sound in Cinema

The increasing recognition of sound mixing as a critical component of filmmaking is a welcome trend. For years, sound departments were often overlooked during awards season, overshadowed by more visually-focused categories. Although, audiences are increasingly attuned to the power of sound in creating immersive and emotionally resonant cinematic experiences. Films like “Dune” and “Top Gun: Maverick” have demonstrated the impact of exceptional sound design, and “F1” appears to be continuing that momentum.

This year’s CAS Awards reflect a growing appreciation for the artistry and technical skill involved in sound mixing. The awards not only honor the individuals responsible for these achievements but also raise awareness of the importance of sound in storytelling. As noted in MSN’s coverage, the award for “F1” specifically recognized the best sound mixing in a theatrical motion picture for 2025.

What’s Ahead for “F1” and the Sound Team?

With the CAS Award under its belt, “F1: The Movie” now sets its sights on the Academy Awards. Nominations for the 98th Academy Awards will be announced on March 17, 2026. While the CAS Award doesn’t guarantee an Oscar nomination, it significantly increases the film’s chances. The Academy’s sound categories have undergone changes in recent years, consolidating several awards into a single Best Sound category, making competition even fiercer.

The sound team’s work on “F1” will be carefully scrutinized by Academy voters, who will assess the film’s overall sonic impact and technical achievement. The team’s ability to create a realistic and immersive racing experience will be a key factor in their chances of success. Beyond awards season, the recognition garnered from the CAS Award and potential Oscar nomination will undoubtedly elevate the profiles of the sound team members and their future projects.