Apple’s Formula 1 Coverage: A Comprehensive Guide for 2026
The 2026 Formula 1 season marks a significant shift in how fans in the United States can access the sport, with Apple becoming the exclusive broadcast partner. Beyond simply streaming races, Apple is integrating F1 content across its entire ecosystem, offering a comprehensive experience for fans. Here’s a detailed look at what subscribers can expect.
Apple TV: The Hub for F1 Action
At the core of Apple’s F1 coverage is the Apple TV app. Subscribers will find a dedicated tab for Formula 1, providing access to all 24 races of the 2026 season, as well as practice sessions, qualifying, and sprint races [9to5Mac]. An Apple TV subscription, priced at $12.99/month or $99/year, is all that’s required to access the live and on-demand broadcasts; no additional packages are needed [9to5Mac]. It’s also included in the Apple One bundle and various carrier deals.
On race day, the Formula 1 tab transforms, offering quick links to the live broadcast and Multiview modes. Fans can watch both drivers from a favored team simultaneously in a split-screen layout. A unique camera feed will also be available, switching to the onboard view of the race leader [9to5Mac]. Multiview is compatible with Apple TV 4K, iPad, and Vision Pro.
The Apple TV app’s Home tab will feature promotions for ongoing live races, allowing for a seamless transition to the full-screen live stream [9to5Mac].
Beyond the Race: Apple’s Expanded F1 Ecosystem
Apple’s commitment extends beyond live race coverage. The company is partnering with Netflix to bring the popular docuseries Drive to Survive to Apple TV subscribers for the first time [9to5Mac].
Apple Music & Podcasts
On race days, Apple Music Radio will offer freely available audio commentary to follow the action [9to5Mac]. A dedicated F1 hub will appear in Apple Music, featuring race-related playlists curated by drivers, DJ mixes, and the “Sounds of the Circuit” playlist, reflecting the culture of the race location [9to5Mac]. Apple Podcasts will also showcase popular motorsports and Formula 1 podcasts.
Apple News & Sports
Apple News will feature dedicated sections for Formula 1, aggregating articles from various publishers, including driver and manufacturer standings, interviews, and highlights [9to5Mac]. Each Grand Prix will have a dedicated page with relevant stories and live scorecards. Real-time video previews of races will also be available. Apple Sports will provide real-time leaderboards and a direct link to Apple TV for live viewing, along with live activity updates and a leaderboard widget for iPhones.
Getting Started: Melbourne Grand Prix Coverage
The Melbourne Grand Prix kicks off the season on Sunday, March 7th. Apple TV coverage begins with the first practice session on Friday at 8:30 a.m. ET. All practice sessions will be streamed for free, without a subscription [9to5Mac].
Subscribing to Formula 1 on Apple TV
Fans can subscribe to Formula 1 through Apple TV with a 7-day free trial, followed by a monthly fee of $12.99 [Apple TV+]. Apple TV subscribers also gain access to F1 TV Premium, offering features like onboard cameras, team radios, and live telemetry [Engadget].