Apple TV Secures Exclusive U.S. F1 Broadcast Rights Starting in 2026

Apple TV will become the exclusive home of Formula 1 in the United States starting with the 2026 season, beginning its coverage with the Australian Grand Prix in March. The five-year deal includes every session of the 24-race calendar and comes with a free seven-day trial for new subscribers.

Why it matters:

This marks a significant shift in how American fans access F1, moving from traditional cable to a major streaming platform. The timing aligns with the debut of the American Cadillac team, potentially broadening the sport's appeal in a key market. For Apple, it deepens its investment in motorsport following the release of the 'F1' movie and strengthens its sports streaming portfolio.

The details:

• Coverage Scope: The subscription includes live coverage of every practice session, qualifying, sprint event, and Grand Prix on the calendar, including the U.S. races in Miami, Las Vegas, and Austin.
• Integrated Features: Apple plans to integrate live race updates, leaderboards, and standings across its ecosystem, including Apple News, Maps, Music, and the Sports app.
• Additional Content: Access extends beyond the live broadcast to include F1 TV's premium features like live timing, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content. A partnership with Netflix will also provide access to Drive to Survive episodes.
• Free Tier: Apple has stated it will broadcast selected races for free within the Apple TV app, though specific events have not been confirmed.

What's next:

Coverage kicks off with the 2026 season opener in Melbourne on March 18. The success of this move will be measured by subscriber uptake and the platform's ability to deliver a seamless viewing experience for a fanbase accustomed to traditional broadcasts. With Cadillac entering the sport, Apple's exclusive hold could be pivotal in capturing a new wave of U.S. interest in Formula 1.