Apple Secures Exclusive Formula 1 TV Rights in the U.S. – Starting 2026

Apple has officially signed a five-year deal to become the exclusive broadcaster of Formula 1 in the United States, beginning with the 2026 season. The agreement, reportedly valued at $140 million per year, means that U.S. fans will need Apple TV+ to watch F1 races live.

For Formula 1 fans, this is one of the biggest broadcasting shakeups in recent years. Here’s what it means for the sport, Apple, and motorsport fans in America.

Apple’s Formula 1 Streaming Deal Explained

The deal will make Apple TV the only place to watch Formula 1 in the U.S. Every Grand Prix, qualifying session, Sprint race, and practice session will stream exclusively through Apple’s platform.

• Free content: Apple has confirmed that all practice sessions and select races will be available free on the Apple TV app.

• F1 TV Premium included: Current subscribers to F1 TV Premium in the U.S. will see the service merged into Apple’s platform.

This marks the end of Formula 1’s run on ESPN, which had been broadcasting races since 2018. While ESPN reportedly paid about $90 million annually, Apple’s aggressive bid of $140 million per year secured the exclusive rights.

Why Did Apple Want Formula 1?

Apple has been investing heavily in live sports, and Formula 1 offers unique global appeal. Here’s why the tech giant made the move:

• Racing momentum: Apple’s F1: The Movie became the highest-grossing auto racing film ever, earning more than $600 million worldwide.

• Live sports retention: Sports are one of the strongest drivers of subscriptions, making Formula 1 a valuable asset to reduce churn and grow Apple TV+.

• Ecosystem advantage: Apple plans to integrate Formula 1 across its services—Apple News, Apple Music, Apple Sports, and Fitness+—giving fans real-time stats, highlights, and exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

What This Means for U.S. F1 Fans

For American viewers, the shift will bring both opportunities and challenges:

• More access: Every F1 session will be available live on Apple TV, with enhanced features like data overlays, replays, and interactive options.

• Cost factor: While some races and practices are free, full access will likely require an Apple TV+ subscription.

• Accessibility questions: Apple must ensure support for smart TVs, streaming sticks, and non-Apple devices, so fans aren’t limited to iPhones, iPads, or Macs.

Why This Deal Matters for Streaming

Apple’s acquisition of Formula 1 rights is more than just a sports play—it’s a direct challenge to traditional broadcasters like ESPN and NBC. It highlights three big trends:

1. Tech companies are outbidding TV networks for premium sports rights.

2. Exclusive streaming deals are reshaping how fans watch their favorite sports.

3. Global properties like Formula 1 are central to streaming platforms that want to stand out.

For Apple, this deal elevates Apple TV into a true sports streaming platform, not just an entertainment service.

Challenges Apple Must Overcome

While the deal is groundbreaking, it comes with hurdles:

• Production expectations: ESPN’s coverage was well-received; Apple must match or surpass it with expert commentary and broadcast quality.

• Pricing decisions: If access is too expensive, casual fans may tune out.

• Fan adaptation: Viewers used to traditional cable coverage will need to adjust to a streaming-only model.

The Future of F1 Streaming in the U.S.

Starting in 2026, Formula 1 weekends will look very different for U.S. fans. With Apple holding the exclusive Formula 1 streaming rights, the sport will become a centerpiece of Apple TV+. For fans, this could mean better coverage, innovative features, and a more immersive experience—but it also signals the end of watching F1 on traditional cable.

This move cements Apple as a major player in live sports broadcasting and could pave the way for more exclusive sports deals in the future.