Formula 1 Signs 5-Year Broadcast Deal with Apple TV
Formula 1’s New Era in American Broadcasting
As Disney’s era as the American broadcast rights holder for Formula 1 comes to an end, a significant change is on the horizon. Starting in 2026, Apple TV will take over as the official broadcast partner for Formula 1 in the United States. This five-year agreement marks a pivotal shift for the sport, which has transitioned through various networks, previously partnering with NBC and most recently airing on ESPN.
The move to a direct-to-consumer platform aligns with evolving American viewing habits, offering fans a new, streamlined way to engage with the sport. All practice, qualifying, sprints, and Grand Prix events will be accessible to fans through Apple TV, reflecting a modern broadcasting approach.
Insights from Formula 1 Executives
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “This is an incredibly exciting partnership for both Formula 1 and Apple that will ensure we can continue to maximize our growth potential in the U.S. with the right content and innovative distribution channels.” He emphasized the collaborative history between the two entities, particularly through the success of “F1 The Movie,” which garnered global acclaim.
Domenicali highlighted the goal of enticing new fans through live broadcasts and engaging content. He extended gratitude to key members of the Apple team for their commitment to enhancing the viewing experience for American audiences.
Available Features for Fans
In an effort to broaden accessibility, Formula 1 has announced that a select number of races and practices each year will be free to watch. This initiative aims to engage a wider audience, providing fans the ability to experience the excitement of Formula 1 without a subscription barrier.
With over 45 million subscribers as of early 2025, Apple TV’s extensive user base positions it well to bring Formula 1 to a larger audience. The release of “Formula 1” and its impressive gross revenue of $630 million in 2025 further underlines the sport’s rising popularity in the U.S. market.
Apple TV’s Strategic Expansion
Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, expressed excitement over the partnership, saying, “We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Formula 1 and offer Apple TV subscribers in the U.S. front row access to one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports on the planet.” He noted that 2026 will usher in new teams, regulations, and vehicles, promising a transformative experience for fans.
Financially, the deal is reported to be a lucrative arrangement for Formula 1, with estimates suggesting Apple will pay approximately $140 million per year—an increase from ESPN’s previous $85 million. This financial boost reflects the increasing value of Formula 1 in the American market and the sport’s growing appeal among viewers.
Historical Context and Viewer Engagement
Historically, ESPN has played a crucial role in boosting Formula 1’s popularity in the U.S., achieving an average viewership of 1.4 million per race. This transition to Apple TV could further build on that momentum, as the platform aims to provide a premium viewing experience tailored to a digitally-savvy audience.
Currently, Apple TV subscriptions are priced at $12.99 per month and are ad-free, which may enhance the viewing experience for fans who prefer uninterrupted content. The 2026 Formula 1 season will commence with the Australian Grand Prix scheduled for March 6-8, marking a new beginning in the sport’s broadcasting landscape.
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