At the Austin Grand Prix this weekend, Formula 1 announced that Apple will have exclusive U.S. streaming rights.
Apple has secured the exclusive U.S. streaming rights for Formula 1 starting with the 2026 season. This ends ESPN’s current era of broadcasting.
The five-year agreement is reportedly worth an estimated $140 million per year. It allows Apple TV subscribers to access all races, practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and Sprint races. Some races and practice sessions will be offered for free via the Apple TV app, with upgrades to F1 TV Premium planned for Apple’s subscription service.
The move is part of F1’s expansion of its U.S. fan base. It was bolstered by the success of the Drive to Survive series and big US races in Miami, Las Vegas and Austin. The new service will give Apple a chance to integrate across its ecosystem including News and the Apple Sports app to create a richer, more interactive viewing experience.
What Fans Can Expect From F1 on Apple TV
Subscribers get access to all live coverage and interactive features that showcase onboard cameras, telemetry, and multiple feeds via F1 TV Premium, available exclusively through Apple.
In addition, Apple will provide stats, standings, and leaderboards. It will also have other companion apps available for the iPhone or iPad, in real time as well.
Although this shift offers a more integrated experience and more advanced technology, fans will need to have an Apple TV subscription in order to consume most content. This represents a huge shift from prior availability on ESPN. Apple also has plans to cover select races and practices with free coverage to create new F1 fans.
This Apple deal indicates a larger trend. That live sports are becoming the centerpiece of streaming strategies and tech companies are increasing competition for exclusive rights.
For F1, this partnership in the U.S. should enhance engagement and viewership.
