- Formula 1 has signed a massive five-year exclusive broadcast deal with Apple TV for the United States, starting in 2026.
- The agreement is reportedly valued at a staggering $160 million per year, signaling a major shift in sports streaming.
- This new partnership marks the end of F1’s long-standing relationship with ESPN, which has aired races in the U.S. since 2018.
- The deal follows the successful collaboration between Apple and F1 on the recently released “F1” movie.
A New Era for Formula 1 in the United States
In a move set to reshape how American fans watch Formula 1, the sport has officially announced a landmark five-year exclusive broadcasting deal with Apple TV, beginning with the 2026 season. The partnership, confirmed on Friday, underscores the rapidly growing popularity of F1 in the U.S. and the increasing dominance of streaming services in live sports.
The agreement, reported to be worth $160 million annually, will make Apple TV the sole destination for U.S. viewers to watch every race, qualifying session, and practice live. This strategic shift comes after a period of significant audience growth under the current broadcaster, ESPN.
Building on a Hollywood Collaboration
The new deal is not the first time Apple and Formula 1 have joined forces. The two giants recently collaborated on the “F1” movie, a project that brought the high-octane world of motorsport to a global audience on the big screen.
F1 President Stefano Domenicali highlighted the existing synergy, stating, “We [Apple and F1] are no strangers to each other, having spent the past three years working together to create F1 The Movie, which has already proven to be a huge hit around the world.” He added, “We have a shared vision to bring this amazing sport to our fans in the U.S. and entice new fans through live broadcasts, engaging content, and a year-round approach to keep them hooked.”
Apple also expressed its excitement for the expanded partnership. “We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Formula 1 and offer Apple TV subscribers in the U.S. front row access to one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports on the planet,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services.
The End of an Era with ESPN
The move to Apple TV marks the end of F1’s successful run on ESPN, which began in 2018 and will conclude at the end of the 2025 season. ESPN’s coverage has been widely credited with helping fuel the sport’s recent surge in American popularity.
In a statement, ESPN acknowledged the successful partnership: “We’re incredibly proud of what we and Formula 1 accomplished together in the United States and look forward to a strong finish in this final season. We wish F1 well in the future.”
As the F1 circus arrives in Austin this week for the U.S. Grand Prix, the focus remains on the thrilling title fight between McLaren teammates Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris. However, this off-track news confirms that the future of F1 broadcasting in the U.S. is headed for a dramatic and digital-first overhaul.