Apple and Netflix have announced a partnership to jointly broadcast the 2026 Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix live in the United States. This marks the first time U.S. fans can watch the race simultaneously on both Apple TV and Netflix. The deal includes cross-promotion of Netflix's Drive to Survive series to expand F1's audience.
Apple TV has become the exclusive U.S. broadcaster for all 24 Formula 1 races starting in the 2026 season, replacing ESPN under a five-year agreement reportedly worth around $750 million, or approximately $150 million per season. This is a significant increase from ESPN's previous deal of about $80 million annually. The partnership with Netflix focuses on the Canadian Grand Prix, scheduled for May 22-24, 2026, in Montreal, allowing Netflix subscribers to view the full race weekend, including practice, qualifying, and the race on May 24.
Eddy Cue, Apple's Senior Vice President of Services, announced the collaboration on Thursday, February 27, 2026. As part of the agreement, Netflix's eighth season of Drive to Survive, which covers the 2025 Formula 1 season and consists of eight episodes, premiered on February 27 and will be available to Apple TV subscribers in the U.S. and Netflix users worldwide. This mutual promotion aims to leverage the series' role in popularizing F1, which has drawn millions of new fans through its behind-the-scenes narrative.
The partnership reflects Formula 1's growing popularity in the U.S., boosted by Liberty Media's efforts since acquiring the sport in 2017 and the recent Oscar-nominated film featuring Brad Pitt. Apple plans to promote F1 across its platforms, including Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+, as well as in physical stores. Netflix, shifting from a no-sports policy, has recently acquired rights to events like NFL Christmas games and WWE Raw. No plans exist yet for live F1 streaming on Netflix in the UK, where Sky Sports holds broadcasting rights.
This collaboration signals a broader integration of streaming services and sports content to attract new audiences to Formula 1.
