Apple Becomes Exclusive U.S. Broadcast Partner for Formula 1
Apple is fundamentally shifting the landscape of sports broadcasting in the United States. In a strategic move to deepen its footprint in live entertainment, Apple and Formula 1 have announced a five-year partnership that makes Apple TV the exclusive broadcast partner for F1 in the U.S. Starting in 2026.
This deal isn’t just about streaming races; it’s a comprehensive integration of a global sport into the Apple ecosystem. By combining live broadcasting with its suite of apps and original content, Apple is attempting to create a centralized hub for F1 fans in America.
Comprehensive Coverage and Accessibility
Beginning next year, Apple TV will deliver full coverage of the Formula 1 season. Subscribers will have access to all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, Sprint sessions, and the Grands Prix themselves.
To broaden the sport’s reach, Apple will offer select races and all practice sessions for free within the Apple TV app throughout the season. This hybrid model of premium and free content is designed to attract new viewers while providing a high-end experience for dedicated enthusiasts.
Beyond the Broadcast: Ecosystem Integration
Apple isn’t treating F1 as a standalone product. The company plans to amplify the sport across several of its core services to create an immersive fan experience:
- Apple Sports: The free iPhone app will serve as the primary source for live updates. Fans can track real-time leaderboards, season driver and constructor standings, and use Live Activities on the Lock Screen or a designated Home Screen widget.
- Service Integration: F1 content and updates will be integrated into Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+.
- F1 TV Premium: Formula 1’s own premier content offering will remain available in the U.S., but exclusively via an Apple TV subscription. For those who already subscribe to Apple TV, F1 TV Premium will be free.
The Catalyst: F1 The Movie
This partnership follows the massive global success of F1 The Movie, an Apple Original Film. Described as the highest-grossing sports movie of all time, the film served as a bridge between the cinematic world and the live sport, demonstrating a significant appetite for F1 content among Apple’s audience.
Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services, noted that the company is thrilled to expand its relationship with Formula 1 to provide U.S. Subscribers with “front-row access to one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports on the planet.”
Key Takeaways for Fans
- Start Date: The exclusive partnership begins in 2026.
- Duration: The agreement is a five-year deal.
- Scope: All F1 races, including practice and qualifying, move to Apple TV in the U.S.
- Free Content: Some races and all practice sessions will be available for free in the Apple TV app.
- Tech Perks: Real-time updates will be available via the Apple Sports app and various iOS widgets.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Apple start broadcasting Formula 1 in the U.S.?
The exclusive broadcasting partnership is set to begin in 2026.
Will I need a paid subscription to watch every race?
While Apple TV subscribers will have full access to all sessions, Apple will make select races and all practice sessions available for free within the Apple TV app.
What happens to F1 TV Premium?
F1 TV Premium will continue to be available in the U.S., but it will be accessed exclusively through an Apple TV subscription and will be free for those who are already subscribers.
How will the Apple Sports app be used for F1?
The Apple Sports app will provide live updates for every qualifying session, Sprint, and race, featuring real-time leaderboards, standings, and Lock Screen Live Activities.
The Future of Sports on Apple TV
This move signals Apple’s aggressive pursuit of live sports as a primary driver for hardware and service adoption. By leveraging the success of F1 The Movie and integrating live data across its OS, Apple is moving beyond simple broadcasting toward a fully integrated sports entertainment experience.