Apple Enhances Formula 1 Experience with Apple Maps Integration and Exclusive Apple TV Broadcast
As the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches, Apple is gearing up to deliver an immersive experience for fans in the United States, leveraging its exclusive broadcast partnership and innovative features across its ecosystem. The season kicks off next weekend, marking the beginning of Apple’s exclusive streaming rights for F1 in the U.S. On Apple TV.
Apple Maps Gets a Formula 1 Upgrade
Apple Maps is receiving significant enhancements for Formula 1 fans, starting with a detailed experience for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix 2026. These updates will expand to include more races throughout the year, providing a comprehensive guide for both attendees and viewers.
- Detailed Circuit Maps: Fans can explore detailed circuit maps featuring turn numbers, grandstands and a 3D landmark of the F1 Pit Garage.
- Pop-Up Locations: The maps highlight essential race-day amenities, including entrance gates, restrooms, water stations, first aid facilities, and merchandise stands, with walking directions to grandstands.
- 3D Landmarks: Key structures around Albert Park, such as the Pit Building, grandstands, Lakeside Stadium, and the Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre, are rendered in 3D.
- City Landmarks: The integration extends to prominent Melbourne landmarks like AAMI Park, Eureka Tower, Luna Park, and the Royal Exhibition Building.
- 2026 Formula 1 Tracks Guide: A dedicated guide within Apple Maps provides information on all twenty-four Grand Prix circuits for the 2026 season.
Apple TV: Your Home for Formula 1
Apple TV subscribers will have access to stream all F1 races without any additional charges. The partnership, a five-year agreement, brings comprehensive coverage including practice, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix. Select races and all practice sessions will also be available for free within the Apple TV app.
Within the Apple TV app, a dedicated Formula 1 tab will offer quick access to live broadcasts, Multiview modes (available on Apple TV 4K, iPad, and Vision Pro), and the option to view onboard footage from the leading driver. The Home tab will feature promotions for ongoing races, allowing for seamless transitions to the live stream.
Expanding the F1 Experience Across Apple’s Ecosystem
Apple’s commitment extends beyond Apple TV, with plans to amplify the sport across various platforms:
- Apple News: Coverage and updates will be available through Apple News.
- Apple Music: Race day broadcasts on Apple Music Radio will feature freely-available audio commentary.
- Apple Sports: The Apple Sports app will provide live updates, leaderboards, standings, Live Activities for the Lock Screen, and a dedicated iPhone Home Screen widget.
- Apple Fitness+: Integration with Apple Fitness+ is planned.
Apple will be partnering with Netflix to bring the popular docuseries Drive to Survive to Apple TV subscribers for the first time. F1 TV Premium will continue to be available in the U.S. Via an Apple TV subscription.
Apple TV is available for $12.99/month, or $99/year, and is also included in the Apple One bundle and through various carrier deals.