Apple & Formula 1: 5-Year US Streaming Deal

Apple Secures Exclusive Formula 1 Broadcasting Rights in the U.S.

On Friday, Apple revealed it has obtained exclusive U.S. broadcasting rights for Formula 1 racing. This new five-year agreement between the technology company and Formula 1 designates Apple TV as the sole streaming platform for all Formula 1 races beginning with the 2026 season.

Comprehensive Coverage on Apple TV

Subscribers to Apple TV will have access to complete coverage, including all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, Sprint sessions, and Grand Prix races. Furthermore, select races and all practice sessions will be made available at no cost within the Apple TV app throughout the season.

Financial Details of the Agreement

Reports indicate that Apple submitted a bid ranging from $140 million to $150 million per year for these rights. This represents a substantial increase compared to the $85 million annual payment currently made by ESPN for Formula 1 broadcasting. The total value of Apple’s deal is estimated at $750 million over the five-year period.

Recent Developments at Apple

This announcement follows Apple’s recent decision to rebrand its streaming service, removing the “+” sign and simply naming it “Apple TV”.

Collaboration with Formula 1

The agreement builds upon Apple’s existing partnership with Formula 1, which included the production of the original film “F1 The Movie” featuring Brad Pitt. This film achieved global success, grossing $629 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing sports movie ever made. It will be available on Apple TV starting December 12.

Expanded Integration Across Apple Services

Beyond broadcasting, Apple intends to promote the sport across various platforms, including Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+. The Apple Sports app will provide live updates for every qualifying, Sprint, and race, featuring real-time leaderboards and season standings.

Apple's Vision for Formula 1 Coverage

“We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Formula 1,” stated Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services. He added that the company aims to provide Apple TV subscribers with unparalleled access to this rapidly growing sport. Cue highlighted the transformative changes coming to Formula 1 in 2026, including new teams, regulations, and vehicles.

Growing Sports Lineup on Apple TV

Formula 1 joins Major League Soccer and Major League Baseball as the latest sports to be featured on Apple TV’s expanding lineup.

Formula 1's Increasing Popularity

Apple emphasizes that Formula 1 is experiencing significant global growth, with a U.S. fanbase reaching 52 million in 2024. This increasing popularity underscores the value of the broadcasting rights Apple has secured.

Exclusive Rights: Apple TV will be the exclusive home for Formula 1 races in the U.S. starting in 2026.
Financial Commitment: Apple’s deal is valued at approximately $750 million over five years.
Cross-Platform Promotion: Formula 1 will be integrated across multiple Apple services.