Apple Secures $750m Formula 1 US Broadcast Deal

Apple’s landmark Formula 1 broadcasting deal in the US

In a major move for sports broadcasting, Apple has secured the exclusive rights to stream Formula 1 races across the United States in a groundbreaking five-year agreement worth approximately $750 million (£558 million). This deal, commencing in 2026, will provide Apple TV subscribers with seamless access to all on-track sessions, marking Apple's first significant foray into live sports coverage at this scale.

What the deal means for Formula 1 fans in America

Under this new arrangement, all Apple TV+ subscribers in the US will enjoy live coverage of every Formula 1 race, qualifying session, and practice lap as part of their standard subscription. Unlike other sports offerings on Apple TV, such as Major League Soccer, which require additional fees, F1 will be included at no extra cost. This integration promises to broaden F1’s reach in a market where motorsport is gaining traction but remains behind traditional American sports in popularity.

Comprehensive content and commentary plans

Subscribers will also gain access to exclusive content produced by F1’s own in-house channel, F1 TV, enhancing the viewing experience with behind-the-scenes features and expert analysis. While Apple has yet to finalise its commentary arrangements, it is expected to utilise either the established commentary teams from F1 TV or the UK’s Sky Sports, ensuring high-quality narration without initially producing bespoke commentary itself.

The influence of the Brad Pitt F1 movie on the deal

A significant catalyst for Apple’s investment was the success of the recent Formula 1 feature film starring Brad Pitt, which has become the highest-grossing sports movie ever, pulling in around $630 million (£470 million) globally. This cinematic triumph not only heightened mainstream interest in Formula 1 but also demonstrated the sport’s growing appeal in the US market, making it a lucrative prospect for Apple’s streaming ambitions.

Comparing Apple’s deal with previous US Formula 1 broadcast rights

Previously, ESPN held the US broadcasting rights for Formula 1, paying about $80 million (£60 million) annually. Apple’s new deal represents almost double that amount per year, signalling a bold commitment to expanding F1’s American footprint. This substantial increase highlights Apple’s confidence in Formula 1’s potential to attract a larger and more engaged audience through innovative digital platforms.

Broader implications for sports broadcasting and F1’s US growth

Formula 1’s chairman, Stefano Domenicali, emphasised that this partnership will “amplify the sport across all Apple outlets – News, Maps, Music, Sports, and Fitness+,” leveraging Apple’s diverse ecosystem to engage fans in new and interactive ways. Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice-president of services, underlined the company’s dedication to providing “premium and innovative fan-first coverage,” reflecting a strategic shift towards immersive sports experiences that combine live events with rich digital content.

What this means for UK and global motorsport fans

While Apple’s deal focuses on the US market, the ripple effects will influence global Formula 1 broadcasting strategies and fan engagement. Fans in the UK can still enjoy F1 through established broadcasters like Sky Sports, whose commentary might also be used in the US streams. Moreover, popular series like Netflix’s Drive to Survive will remain available, complementing live race coverage with compelling storytelling.

Connecting motorsport developments with other sports trends

Apple’s bold move into Formula 1 broadcasting comes amid a dynamic period for sports media rights, as digital platforms vie for exclusive content to attract subscribers. This mirrors shifts in other sports, such as golf and football, where streaming accessibility is reshaping how fans consume live events. For instance, enthusiasts following major golf tournaments can stay updated with expertly curated guides like key golf tournaments to watch from September 2024, highlighting the growing importance of digital platforms in sports coverage.

Similarly, football supporters can access comprehensive fixtures and scores, such as the detailed Premier League scores and fixtures guide for the 2024-25 season, showcasing how digital media is centralising sports information and live content.

Looking ahead: What fans can expect from Apple’s F1 coverage

As Apple prepares to launch its Formula 1 coverage in 2026, fans can anticipate a technologically advanced viewing experience that utilises Apple’s renowned ecosystem integration. Features may include interactive race data, personalised content recommendations, and seamless multi-device streaming. This innovation could set new standards for how motorsport and other live sports are consumed, blending entertainment, information, and engagement in unique ways.

Moreover, the deal underscores the growing commercial and cultural significance of Formula 1 in America, a market historically dominated by sports like American football and baseball. With Apple’s backing, F1 is poised to accelerate its expansion and popularity, potentially inspiring increased grassroots interest and investment within the US.

Conclusion: A new era for Formula 1 and sports broadcasting

Apple’s $750 million Formula 1 broadcasting deal represents a pivotal moment for both the sport and the streaming giant. By integrating live F1 coverage into Apple TV’s core offering, the partnership is set to transform how American audiences engage with high-speed motorsport. This bold investment not only reflects Formula 1’s rising global profile but also signals a broader shift in sports media towards digital-first, fan-centred experiences.

For sports enthusiasts keen to explore evolving broadcasting trends and thrilling sporting narratives, checking out recent stories like Jofra Archer's remarkable cricket comeback or McIlroy's dramatic Irish Open victory can offer additional insights into the current dynamic sports landscape.