Apple TV Secures Exclusive F1 Streaming Rights in US from 2026

Apple has secured exclusive Formula 1 streaming rights in the United States, taking over from ESPN at the close of 2025. This five-year deal means that F1 fans in the US will need an Apple TV subscription to watch races starting from the 2026 season, marking a significant shift in how the championship is broadcast in North America.

Why it matters:

• This move represents a major shake-up in F1 broadcasting for the US market, consolidating all F1 content under one exclusive platform. It underscores Apple's growing ambition in live sports content and signifies a new era for F1 accessibility for its American fanbase.
• The deal ensures that F1 will continue to be a premium sports offering in the US, with a clear focus on integrating F1 TV Premium into the Apple TV subscription, potentially enhancing the viewing experience for dedicated fans.

The details:

• Exclusivity: From 2026, Apple TV will be the sole platform for live F1 race, qualifying, and practice sessions in the US, ending ESPN's tenure.
• Subscription Model: An active Apple TV subscription will be required, which will also include access to F1 TV Premium.
  • Monthly cost: $12.99 (as of 2025).
  • Annual cost: $99 (as of 2025).
  • A seven-day free trial will be available for new subscribers.
  • Apple One bundles, starting at $19.95 per month, will also include Apple TV and other Apple services.
• Content Access: All F1 races, qualifying, and practice sessions will stream live. Select races and all practice sessions will also be available for free within the Apple TV app.
• F1 TV Premium Integration: F1's own premier content offering, F1 TV Premium, will be exclusively available in the US via an Apple TV subscription, and will be free for those who subscribe.
• On-Demand and Language Options: On-demand replays will be available, crucial for American viewers due to early morning race times. A Spanish-language option will also be offered.
• Device Compatibility: Apple TV is supported on a wide range of devices and browsers, including Apple TV devices (4th gen and later), iPhones, iPads, Mac computers, smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony, Vizio), Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Chromecast, PlayStation, Xbox, and web browsers via tv.apple.com.

What's next:

• Additional details regarding production, product specifics, and fan engagement features will be announced in the coming months as Apple prepares for the 2026 season launch.
• Fans currently watching F1 on ESPN will need to prepare for the transition to Apple TV and adjust their viewing habits accordingly.
• This partnership could lead to innovative new features and viewing experiences, given Apple's technological prowess and F1's commitment to fan engagement.