In a significant development for Formula One (F1) in the United States, Apple has secured exclusive broadcasting rights starting in 2026. This five-year agreement was announced during the 2025 U.S. Grand Prix weekend in Austin, Texas.
Details of the Apple TV Formula One Broadcast Rights Deal
The partnership comes on the heels of the successful release of the F1 movie, which grossed nearly $630 million globally. Apple Studios co-produced the film, further solidifying Apple’s commitment to the sport.
Transition from Traditional Broadcasting
Historically, F1’s U.S. broadcasting rights have been held by traditional networks. From 2001 to 2012, Fox Broadcasting aired races via its Speed network. NBC took over from 2013 to 2017, reportedly paying only $4 million annually. ESPN has held the rights since 2018.
- ESPN’s current rights deal was set to expire in early 2025.
- ESPN’s offer for an extension was approximately $90 million per year.
- Apple’s bid ranges from $120 million to $150 million annually.
Comprehensive Broadcast Package
This new deal includes extensive coverage of all racing sessions throughout the season. Apple plans to integrate F1 into various platforms such as:
- Apple News
- Apple Maps
- Apple Music
- Apple Sports
- Apple Fitness+
F1 TV Premium will remain available in the U.S. exclusively to Apple TV subscribers at no additional cost.
Impact on F1’s Popularity in the U.S.
The move to Apple signifies a pivotal change in F1’s broadcasting strategy. Viewership has significantly increased during ESPN’s tenure: an average of 554,000 viewers per race in 2018 rose to 1.2 million in 2022. Projections for the 2025 season foresee an average of 1.4 million viewers.
Future Goals and Cultural Integration
F1 leadership, including CEO Stefano Domenicali, aims to weave the sport into the American cultural fabric. The collaboration with Apple is expected to attract more fans, especially younger and female demographics. This deal represents a strategic effort to expand F1’s reach in the growing U.S. market.
As preparations continue for the 2026 Australian Grand Prix, the focus now shifts to finalizing production plans and coverage details. This partnership with Apple marks a new era for F1 in the United States, committing to innovation and broader engagement with its audience.
