James Hunt and Niki Lauda, two extremely skilled Formula One racers, have an intense rivalry with each other. However, it is their enmity that pushes them to their limits.
Ron Howard’s high-octane account of the 1976 Formula One rivalry between James Hunt and Niki Lauda races across the real circuits of Europe – above all the fearsome Nurburgring in Germany, where Lauda’s near-fatal crash is restaged on the very track.
Where was Rush filmed?
Rush was filmed at real racing circuits – the Nurburgring in Germany, English tracks like Cadwell Park, and locations across Germany and the UK.
Every Rush location, explained
1
The Nurburgring – Lauda’s crash
The film restaged Niki Lauda’s near-fatal 1976 crash at the real Nurburgring, the notoriously dangerous German circuit.
2
Cadwell Park and English circuits
Several races used English tracks including Cadwell Park in Lincolnshire, doubling for 1970s Grand Prix venues.
3
Cologne – the German scenes
The German city scenes used Cologne, including its Alter Markt.
4
Airfields and period streets
Locations like Blackbushe Airport and period-friendly streets across the UK filled out the 1970s world.
Planning a visit
The Nurburgring in Germany is a legendary, still-active circuit that welcomes visitors and even public track days – the beating heart of the film’s real racing drama.
Rush Fun Facts
1
Filmed at the real Nurburgring Lauda’s crash was restaged at the actual German circuit where it happened.
2
English tracks doubled for Grands Prix Circuits like Cadwell Park stood in for the 1976 season’s varied venues.
3
A true rivalry The film dramatises the real 1976 championship battle between Hunt and Lauda.
4
The real Lauda approved Niki Lauda himself consulted on the film’s accuracy.
5
Period cars The production used period-correct and replica Formula One cars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rush based on a true story?
Yes – it dramatises the real 1976 Formula One rivalry between James Hunt and Niki Lauda.
Was the crash filmed at the real track?
Yes – Lauda’s crash was restaged at the actual Nurburgring in Germany.
Can you visit the Nurburgring?
Yes – it’s a still-active circuit that welcomes visitors and public track days.
Who stars in Rush?
Chris Hemsworth as James Hunt and Daniel Bruhl as Niki Lauda.
