apple to Exclusively Broadcast Formula 1 in the U.S. starting in 2026
Apple will become the exclusive home of Formula 1 broadcasts in the United States beginning in 2026, a partnership heralded as a major shift in the sport’s media landscape. The agreement encompasses live streaming of every Grand Prix, Sprint, qualifying session, and practice session on Apple TV.
To broaden accessibility, select races and all practice sessions will be available for free through the Apple TV app. Moreover, F1 TV Premium, Formula 1’s current subscription service, will be offered exclusively through Apple TV in the U.S., with existing subscribers receiving complimentary access as part of the new package.
This collaboration extends beyond race coverage, with Apple planning to integrate formula 1 content across its wider ecosystem, including Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, Apple Sports, and Apple Fitness+. The goal is to create a “multi-platform, immersive experience” for fans.
The declaration builds on the success of F1: The Movie, an Apple Original Film released in June 2025 and arriving on Apple TV on December 12. Produced in close collaboration with Formula 1 teams and drivers, the film has generated nearly $630 million worldwide, becoming the highest-earning sports movie of all time.
Both Apple and Formula 1 highlighted the potential to attract a younger and more diverse audience. A 2025 Global F1 Fan Survey revealed that 47% of new U.S. F1 fans (those following the sport for five years or less) are between 18 and 24 years old, and over half are female.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, stated, “This is an incredibly exciting partnership for both Formula 1 and Apple that will ensure we can continue to maximise our growth potential in the U.S. with the right content and innovative distribution channels. We 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. 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.”
Eddy Cue, Apple Senior Vice President of Services, added, “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. 2026 marks a transformative new era for Formula 1 from new teams to new regulations and cars with the best drivers in the world, and we look forward to delivering premium and innovative fan-first coverage to our customers in a way that only Apple can.”
The agreement is one of Formula 1’s most significant media deals to date, solidifying Apple’s role in the sport’s U.S.expansion strategy as F1 continues to grow in North america. Further details regarding new production features and the presentation of the sport across Apple’s platforms are expected in the coming months.
