In a major shift for the world of sports broadcasting, Apple has secured exclusive streaming rights for Formula 1 in the United States, starting in 2026. This five-year deal, which will see Apple take over from ESPN, is one of the most significant moves the tech giant has made into the live sports arena. The agreement includes full coverage of every Formula 1 event, from practice sessions and qualifying rounds to the highly anticipated Grand Prix races. This deal not only marks a significant milestone for Apple but also signals the growing importance of digital platforms in the delivery of live sports content.
The deal with Formula 1 gives Apple the exclusive rights to broadcast all aspects of the sport in the U.S., something that will likely appeal to millions of motorsport fans across the country. Formula 1 has seen a rapid rise in popularity in recent years, especially in the U.S., where the sport’s presence has grown exponentially, driven by the success of the Netflix series Drive to Survive and the increasing success of American drivers and teams in the sport. Apple, with its vast ecosystem of devices, is poised to bring Formula 1 racing into the living rooms, cars, and pockets of its massive customer base, allowing for an unprecedented level of access to one of the world’s most thrilling sports.
As part of the agreement, select races will be made available for free through the Apple TV app. This is a strategic move by Apple, allowing non-subscribers to get a taste of the high-speed action and potentially enticing them to sign up for the full package. The full coverage of the Formula 1 season will be available to those with an Apple TV+ subscription, which will provide access to every practice session, qualifying round, and race. This approach offers flexibility to fans, giving them options depending on their level of interest and willingness to commit to a subscription.
For existing F1 TV Premium subscribers in the United States, the transition to Apple’s streaming service will be seamless, as they will continue to enjoy complimentary access to all the content they are used to watching. This move is designed to keep loyal fans happy while also integrating them into Apple’s growing sports ecosystem. For those who have been following Formula 1 on F1 TV Premium, the change may feel less like a disruption and more like a natural evolution of their viewing habits. By ensuring a smooth transition, Apple demonstrates its commitment to offering value to both new and existing fans alike.
For Apple, this partnership is a clear indication of its intentions to play a more significant role in the live sports streaming market, which has become an increasingly important area of competition in the world of digital entertainment. Over the past few years, Apple has been investing heavily in exclusive content across various genres, from drama and comedy to documentaries and movies. By adding Formula 1 to its portfolio, Apple is tapping into the rapidly expanding world of live sports, where competition from other streaming giants like Amazon, Netflix, and traditional broadcast networks is fierce. The move is likely to attract a fresh audience, particularly younger viewers who are increasingly looking for sports content that can be consumed across multiple devices, from smart TVs to mobile phones and tablets.
Formula 1, as a global sport, is particularly valuable to Apple because of its ability to reach an international audience. With races held across multiple continents and an ever-growing fanbase, the sport brings a level of excitement and spectacle that has universal appeal. As more fans in the U.S. embrace the sport, Apple’s ability to deliver the sport via its Apple TV+ platform allows it to tap into this enthusiasm and provide fans with a seamless, high-quality viewing experience. The accessibility of the content will be key to attracting new viewers and fostering a stronger connection between the sport and its fans.
The decision to take over the streaming rights for Formula 1 in the U.S. reflects the changing landscape of sports broadcasting. With more viewers shifting from traditional cable TV to streaming platforms, sports leagues and organizations are increasingly turning to digital platforms to reach younger, tech-savvy audiences. Apple, with its immense global reach and technological infrastructure, is well-positioned to lead the charge in delivering this content to an ever-growing audience. Its ecosystem of devices, including iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and Macs, presents an unparalleled opportunity to integrate Formula 1 into everyday life for millions of viewers.
As the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches, fans will be eagerly anticipating the opportunity to experience every moment of the racing season through Apple’s streaming platforms. From the high-speed drama of the Grand Prix to the behind-the-scenes access of practice sessions and qualifying rounds, the new deal promises to bring fans closer to the action than ever before. With a mix of free races and full access through Apple TV+, the deal ensures that Apple will be at the forefront of Formula 1 coverage in the U.S. for the next five years, offering fans new ways to experience the sport they love.
In conclusion, Apple’s exclusive five-year deal to stream Formula 1 races in the U.S. beginning in 2026 represents a major shift in the way live sports will be consumed. The deal provides fans with comprehensive access to every aspect of the sport, from practice sessions to the final Grand Prix, while also introducing new opportunities for viewers to watch select races for free. By offering a seamless experience for existing F1 TV Premium subscribers and leveraging its extensive ecosystem of devices, Apple is set to revolutionize the way U.S. fans engage with Formula 1, further solidifying its position as a major player in the live sports streaming industry.