Apple Lands Exclusive US Formula 1 Streaming Rights from 2026
Starting with the 2026 season, Apple will become the exclusive home of Formula 1 in the United States under a five-year agreement (2026–2030). The deal moves live coverage of every practice, qualifying, sprint, and Grand Prix race to the Apple TV app, marking a major shift away from ESPN’s current rights.
What’s included
- Coverage: All F1 sessions (practice, qualifying, sprints, and Grands Prix) streamed live in the Apple TV app.
- Availability: US-only exclusivity; existing broadcast arrangements continue in other regions.
- F1 TV Premium (U.S.): F1’s standalone streaming service will be folded into the Apple TV experience for U.S. viewers. Reports indicate that Apple TV subscribers in the U.S. will get F1 TV Premium features at no additional cost once the deal begins.
- Languages: Broadcasts expected in English and Spanish, with closed captions.
- Free access (2026): Some races and all practice sessions are expected to be available free in the Apple TV app during the initial 2026 season.
Key terms and context
While official financials have not been disclosed, multiple reports place the value around $150–$160 million per year (approximately $750–$800 million over five years), a significant increase over ESPN’s previous package. Apple is expected to integrate F1 content across its ecosystem (Apple News, Maps, Music, Sports, Fitness+), signaling a broader push into premium live sports.
- Duration: Five years (2026–2030)
- Estimated value: ~$150–$160M per year (reported)
- Platform: Apple TV app (US market)
- Impact: Ends ESPN’s run as primary U.S. broadcaster after 2025
Why it matters
The U.S. F1 audience has grown rapidly in recent years. Apple’s exclusivity consolidates access within a single streaming platform and could streamline the viewing experience—especially if F1 TV Premium features (like onboard cams, live timing, and archives) are fully integrated. For fans, the big questions are pricing, how many free races persist beyond 2026, and how Apple will handle features power users rely on today.
Official sources and coverage
- Formula1.com: Apple becomes broadcast partner for Formula 1 in the United States
- Motorsport.com: What happens to F1 TV with the Apple deal?
- Tom’s Guide: Apple TV+ announces F1 is coming, including free races in 2026
- Car and Driver: Apple TV lands Formula 1 rights
What to watch next: Finalized pricing and package details for U.S. viewers, the scope of F1 TV Premium integration, and whether free race access extends beyond the first season.
Discussion: Will Apple’s ecosystem and F1 TV Premium features improve the experience for U.S. fans—or will exclusivity make access more complicated?