Apple is expanding its foray into live sports broadcasting with a dedicated Formula 1 channel now available within the Apple TV app, ahead of the 2026 season kickoff in Australia. The recent channel, revealed this week, features placeholders for practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the Grand Prix races themselves, alongside a “Weekend Warm-Up” show, signaling a comprehensive presentation of the motorsport.
The move follows Apple’s announcement in October 2025 of a five-year deal to turn into the exclusive home for Formula 1 broadcasts in the United States, a deal reportedly worth over A$1 billion (US$700 million). While the US broadcast rights are exclusive, the specifics of Apple’s presentation of the races have remained largely undisclosed until now. The channel’s interface suggests Apple will leverage existing broadcast expertise, with a section labeled “Event Schedule: Sky Sports,” indicating the potential use of Sky Sports’ commentary team, a strategy previously employed by ESPN during its coverage of Formula 1.
Beyond the live race coverage, the Apple TV channel is offering a preview of the upcoming season. It includes highlights from the 2025 season and a detailed overview of the rule changes set to be implemented for the 2026 season. These changes, described as “bold innovations over a decade in the making,” are intended to increase power and speed within the sport. A promotional section highlights a “New Era of F1” with updated regulations and the introduction of new drivers and a debut track.
Access to Formula 1 content on Apple TV will be tiered. While some races may be available to watch without a premium subscription, a dedicated F1 TV Premium streaming package is now integrated into the Apple TV subscription, priced at $12.99 per month after a 7-day free trial. This package provides access to all races, as well as behind-the-scenes content including driver cameras and live team radio communications.
Apple’s increased investment in Formula 1 builds on the success of its recent film, “F1: The Movie,” starring Brad Pitt, which grossed over US$629 million worldwide, marking a significant achievement for Apple’s original content division. Apple services chief Eddy Cue has described Formula 1 as an “exponentially huge” growth opportunity for the company.
The Australian Grand Prix is scheduled to be one of the first events covered on the new Apple TV Formula 1 channel. The schedule includes practice sessions, qualifying, and the race itself. The broader implications for Australian broadcasters, particularly Foxtel, remain unclear as they assess their strategy for securing the next round of NRL rights, with the potential for competition from US tech giants like Apple, and Amazon.
