Formula 1 Shifts Gears: Apple Takes the Lead in U.S. Broadcasts

The Formula 1 landscape in the United States is set for a major transformation as Apple secures exclusive broadcasting rights for the sport, beginning in 2026. The five-year deal, valued at $700 million, marks a significant shift in the U.S. sports market, where Formula 1 has seen a surge in popularity in recent years.

This move ends the long-standing partnership with ESPN, which had been broadcasting the races since 2018. Transitioning to a streaming platform reflects the growing demand for on-demand sports content and the need to engage younger, digitally connected audiences. Apple TV+ will become the exclusive platform for all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, sprints, and races in the championship.

Beyond live broadcasts, Apple plans to integrate Formula 1 coverage across its ecosystem of services, including Apple News, Apple Music, Fitness+, and Apple Maps. This approach aims to provide an immersive, multifaceted experience, allowing fans to follow races in various formats and on multiple devices.

The partnership also incorporates F1 TV Premium into the Apple TV+ package, giving subscribers access to exclusive content such as on-board cameras and detailed real-time statistics. This integration positions Apple as a centralized platform for sports entertainment, aligning with the company’s broader initiatives in other sporting disciplines.

Apple’s entry into Formula 1 broadcasting comes at a time when the sport is rapidly gaining popularity in the U.S. Major events in cities like Miami, Las Vegas, and Austin have drawn record-breaking crowds, particularly among young adults. Recent studies indicate that nearly half of new American F1 fans are aged 18 to 24, with women representing over half of this demographic, reflecting a more diverse and engaged fan base.

This move also highlights a global shift in sports broadcasting rights negotiations. Tech companies are increasingly positioning themselves as strategic players in media, challenging traditional cable models and offering more flexible and accessible options for consumers.

With the launch of this new era scheduled for 2026, expectations are high that Apple’s partnership will further accelerate Formula 1’s growth in the U.S., solidifying its place as a premier sporting attraction. The integration of technology and entertainment promises a more interactive and personalized fan experience, reinforcing Apple’s role as a leader in merging tech with sports media.