Apple And Formula 1 Ink 5-Year US Streaming Deal, Bringing All Races To Apple TV
Apple and Formula 1 ink 5-year US streaming deal, bringing all races to Apple TV in a landmark agreement that cements Apple’s growing dominance in sports broadcasting. The partnership will make Apple TV the exclusive streaming home for Formula 1 in the U.S. starting with the 2026 season, replacing ESPN’s long-held rights.
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Apple Takes Over Formula 1 Broadcasting In The U.S.
As part of the multi-year deal, all Formula 1 races — including practice, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grand Prix events — will stream live on Apple TV. The platform will also offer select races and practice sessions for free within the Apple TV app, giving fans more ways to engage with the sport.
Apple reportedly outbid ESPN by a large margin, offering between $140 million and $150 million per year, compared to ESPN’s $85 million annual deal. The total contract is valued at around $750 million over five years, making it one of Apple’s most significant sports streaming investments to date.
Apple’s Latest Move In Its Sports Streaming Expansion
This deal marks another major step in Apple’s growing sports strategy. Just days after rebranding its streaming platform from “Apple TV+” to “Apple TV”, the company is signaling that it’s ready to compete head-to-head with traditional broadcasters and streaming rivals like Amazon and Netflix.
Apple’s existing ties with Formula 1 include the blockbuster film “F1 The Movie,” starring Brad Pitt, which became the highest-grossing sports film ever, earning over $629 million worldwide. The movie is set to debut exclusively on Apple TV on December 12, boosting fan anticipation ahead of the 2026 season launch.
Beyond Streaming: Integrating Formula 1 Across Apple’s Ecosystem
Apple says the deal extends beyond streaming rights. The company plans to integrate Formula 1 content across Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+, enhancing fan engagement across its ecosystem.
Meanwhile, the Apple Sports app will feature live stats, leaderboards, driver and constructor standings, and even Live Activities that allow users to follow races from their Lock Screen or via Home Screen widgets.
Apple’s Vision For The Future Of Formula 1 Coverage
“We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Formula 1 and offer Apple TV subscribers front-row access to one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports on the planet,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services.
Cue added that 2026 marks a new era for Formula 1, featuring new teams, regulations, and next-generation cars, all of which Apple plans to showcase with immersive coverage and interactive fan experiences.
A Transformative Era For Formula 1 Fans
For Formula 1, the deal with Apple represents a pivotal shift in how U.S. fans experience the sport. By combining Apple’s tech ecosystem, premium streaming quality, and fan-focused interactivity, the partnership promises to redefine motorsport broadcasting.
As the Apple and Formula 1 ink 5-year US streaming deal, it’s clear that both brands aim to accelerate the sport’s popularity in America — just as Apple accelerates its presence in live sports entertainment.
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