Starting with the 2026 season, Apple TV will exclusively broadcast Formula 1 races, qualifying, and practice sessions in the United States, replacing ESPN as the primary partner. The deal, announced in October 2025, promises innovative features like uncompressed 4K streaming and personalized viewing options to enhance the fan experience. Apple aims to integrate F1 content across its ecosystem to attract both existing enthusiasts and new audiences.
The partnership between Apple and Formula 1, valued at approximately $140 million annually over five years, marks a significant shift in how American fans access the sport. Previously available on ESPN or the F1.TV platform, all coverage from the 2026 season onward will require an Apple TV subscription, priced at around $10 per month. The season features 24 Grands Prix, beginning in March, with full access to practice, qualifying, and races available live and on-demand in 4K quality.
Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Services, highlighted the transformative potential of the broadcast. "One of the first things you’re going to see is a quality of video you’ve never seen before," Cue stated, emphasizing uncompressed 4K and minimal compression for sharper visuals. Viewers will benefit from team-specific cameras, real-time data overlays on speed and strategy, and innovative angles using iPhones in hard-to-reach circuit spots, inspired by the successful F1 movie starring Brad Pitt that grossed over $630 million.
Apple plans to embed F1 into its broader ecosystem, including highlights in Apple News, race-themed playlists on Apple Music, and interactive demos in Apple Stores. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali envisions the sport becoming as mainstream in the US as the Super Bowl or NBA playoffs. "Our dream would be, one day, not only waking up to follow the Super Bowl or NBA or MLS, but also F1. That’s what we’re going to do together," Domenicali said at a Los Angeles press event.
To ease the transition, practice sessions will stream for free, and Apple TV includes F1.TV Premium at no extra cost, allowing access to historical archives and pre-season testing from February 11-13 and 18-20. While some fans express concerns over the subscription model potentially alienating viewers, Apple counters with strategies to broaden appeal, similar to its Major League Soccer coverage. The deal extends through at least 2030, with possibilities for global expansion.
This overhaul coincides with F1's 2026 regulatory changes, including new power units and aerodynamics, positioning US audiences at the forefront of enhanced motorsport viewing.
