Apple and Netflix Partner to Simulcast Canadian GP in US

In an unprecedented move, streaming rivals Apple and Netflix have agreed to collaborate, with both platforms set to air the Canadian Grand Prix live for U.S. audiences this season. The deal also includes making Netflix's Drive to Survive docuseries available to Apple TV+ subscribers, marking a significant cross-promotional push as F1 begins its new U.S. broadcast era on Apple.

Why it matters:

This partnership represents a major strategic shift in how Formula 1 content is distributed and consumed in its most valuable market. By leveraging the combined reach of two streaming giants, F1 aims to mitigate the risk of losing viewers as it transitions away from its long-standing linear TV home on ESPN to an exclusive streaming model with Apple.

The Details:

• Historic Collaboration: This is the first time Apple and Netflix have collaborated on a live event offering. For Netflix, it's a step to expand its live sports capabilities, which it credited with driving "disproportionate excitement and signups" in late 2025.
• Apple's New Era: The 2025 season marks F1's debut on Apple TV+ under a new multi-year deal reportedly worth $150 million per season. This ends a successful partnership with ESPN, which averaged a record 1.32 million viewers in its final year.
• Strategic Cross-Promotion: Making Drive to Survive available on Apple TV+ is a key part of the strategy. It uses Netflix's hugely popular documentary series as a gateway to attract its audience to watch live races on Apple's platform.
• Leadership's Vision: F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has expressed confidence in the move, stating the Apple relationship will allow the sport to "enter in the houses of other people in a different way" and achieve greater reach in the mature U.S. market.
• Interesting Timing: The Canadian Grand Prix was chosen as the test case for this simulcast. This year's race happens on the same day as the iconic Indianapolis 500, setting up a potential viewership clash, especially if weather causes delays for either event.

What's next:

The success of this one-off simulcast will be closely watched by both companies and the industry. A strong viewership number for the Canadian GP could pave the way for similar collaborations in the future, blending live sports and documentary content across platforms. For F1, the immediate challenge is to retain and grow its U.S. fanbase through this digital-first approach, proving the value of its lucrative gamble with Apple.