F1 Posts Record 2025 Financial Results as Growth Accelerates

Formula 1's commercial revenue surged to $3.9 billion in 2025, marking a 14% year-on-year increase, while operating income jumped 28% to $632 million. The record figures, released by owner Liberty Media, highlight a sport experiencing rapid commercial expansion driven by media rights and robust fan engagement across all platforms.

Why it matters:

These financial results are a clear barometer of F1's global health and commercial power, demonstrating its successful transition under Liberty Media into a mainstream global sports property. The substantial growth in team payments, now at approximately $1.4 billion, ensures the financial stability and competitive investment capability of the ten teams, which is crucial for the sport's on-track product and long-term sustainability.

The details:

• Media Rights Dominance: Broadcasting deals were the largest revenue driver, accounting for 31.3% of total income. Growth was fueled by contractual increases with partners, more F1 TV subscribers, and ancillary content like the Netflix series Drive to Survive.
• Audience Expansion: Live TV viewership saw a striking 21% increase globally. Total race attendance also grew by 4% to 6.75 million spectators over the season, underscoring the sport's live event appeal.
• Strategic Moves: Liberty Media secured key broadcast extensions, including with ESPN in Latin America and the Caribbean through 2028, and confirmed the return of the Portuguese Grand Prix for 2027 and 2028.
• Portfolio Growth: The acquisition of MotoGP rights added $325 million in revenue to Liberty Media's motorsport portfolio, strengthening its position in premium racing content.

What's next:

The financial momentum sets the stage for a pivotal 2026 season. F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali pointed to the new race in Madrid, the highly anticipated grid entries of Cadillac and Audi, and the return of Honda and Ford as key elements of the "next chapter." Coupled with the introduction of new car and engine regulations, the sport is positioning itself for continued dynamic growth and on-track competition, aiming to convert its commercial success into an even more compelling sporting spectacle.