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Apple Takes the Checkered Flag: Formula 1 Races to Streaming Deal Worth $750 Million
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Formula 1 has selected Apple as its exclusive streaming partner beginning in 2026,ending an eight-year run with ESPN and marking a important shift in how American audiences will access the high-octane sport. the five-year agreement, valued at approximately $750 million, comes as Formula 1’s popularity surges in the United States, fueled in part by the success of Netflix’s “Drive to Survive” and the recent Brad Pitt-led feature film, “F1: The Movie,” which grossed $629 million worldwide.
The Road to Apple: A Competitive Bidding Process
as the existing deal with ESPN nears its conclusion at the end of 2025,Formula 1 engaged in serious discussions with both Apple and Netflix to secure its future broadcasting rights. While Netflix played a pivotal role in introducing the sport to a wider American audience, ultimately, Apple’s comprehensive offer proved more appealing.
“Netflix wanted to explore a few options, but we felt that it wasn’t quite right,” a senior Formula 1 official stated at the Grand Prix in Austin. The limited number of Formula 1 races – 24 annually – compared to other American sports like the NBA (1,200 regular season games) and MLB (2,430 games) presented challenges for a potential rights-splitting arrangement, an idea floated during negotiations.
Did you know? – Formula 1’s global fan base grew 11.7% in 2023, reaching 50.4 million, according to the sport’s official figures. This growth is attributed to increased accessibility and engaging content.
The conversations with various US media companies largely centered around creating content packages, a common practice in the American market. Formula 1 explored options such as dividing the season into two halves or exclusively streaming sprint races on diffrent platforms. “We whent into quite a lot of detail,” the official explained. “We went through the whole gambit and tried to keep an open mind about what’s best for the sport.” Ultimately, the institution determined that securing a single partner willing to commit to all races was the preferred approach, given the relatively limited amount of available content.
Reader question: – Will the apple TV+ deal impact the availability of Formula 1 for cord-cutters? Some races in 2025 will be free to ease the transition, but a subscription will be required starting in 2026.
A Symbiotic Relationship with Netflix Continues
Despite choosing Apple as its primary streaming partner, Formula 1 intends to maintain a strong relationship with Netflix. The success of “Drive to Survive,” with its behind-the-scenes access and dramatic storytelling, has been instrumental in attracting new fans. When the agreement with Apple was finalized, Apple’s senior VP of services, Eddy Cue, reportedly acknowledged the value of the Netflix series.
“He said, ‘It’s grate, I love “Drive to Survive.” That brings in fans, we benefit. The more that we do, they benefit,'” the official relayed. “It’s a symbiotic relationship.”
Pro tip: – Apple plans to leverage its ecosystem, including Apple News, Fitness, Maps, and Music, to promote Formula 1. Expect cross-promotional opportunities and dedicated in-store displays.
Apple’s All-In Approach and Future Collaborations
The deal with Apple, commencing in 2026 and extending through 2031, will bring all Formula 1 races to the streaming service as part of its $12.99/month subscription. While acknowledging potential concerns about adding another paywall, Formula 1 recognizes the strategic advantages Apple offers. Some races in 20
