Netflix and Apple TV+ Stream Formula 1 to US Viewers in Landmark Deal

Formula 1 racing is set for increased exposure in the United States with a new content distribution partnership between Netflix and Apple TV+. The collaboration will see Netflix broadcast live race coverage, while Apple TV+ becomes the new home for the popular docuseries Drive to Survive.

Netflix to Broadcast Canadian Grand Prix Live

In a first for the streaming giant, Netflix will provide live coverage of the Canadian Grand Prix in May to American audiences. This marks Netflix’s entry into live Formula 1 race broadcasting in the US, previously dominated by traditional television networks.

Apple TV+ Secures Drive to Survive and Enhanced Viewing Experience

Apple TV+, which secured the exclusive US broadcasting rights for Formula 1 starting in 2026 in a five-year deal reportedly worth just under $150 million annually, will stream the eighth season of Drive to Survive. Beyond the docuseries, Apple TV+ is offering a significantly enhanced viewing experience for race fans.

A Multi-Stream Viewing Experience

Apple TV+ is differentiating its F1 coverage with a multi-stream viewing option, allowing subscribers to watch up to four different video feeds simultaneously. These include:

• Driver tracking
• A dedicated data channel
• On-board cameras from the top three drivers (“podium” channels)
• Team-specific channels with international feeds, on-board cameras, and team radio
• Coverage from Sky Sports F1

Expanding F1’s Reach in the US

Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior VP of services, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership, stating, “Netflix, I think, has played a pivotal role in growing F1 since the launch of Drive to Survive, and we’re thrilled to make F1 content more broadly available to new and existing U.S. Fans on both Netflix and Apple TV.” F1’s media rights director, Ian Holmes, believes Apple’s offering will be a novel experience for American fans, stating, “For American fans, the sport will never have been served to them in this way before.”

Free Streaming Options and Tubi Partnership

While most races will require an Apple TV+ subscription, Apple plans to offer select events for free on its platform. Tubi will also stream certain races as part of the expanded distribution strategy.

Looking Ahead

This collaboration between Netflix and Apple TV+ represents a significant shift in how Formula 1 is broadcast and consumed in the United States. By combining live race coverage with in-depth documentary series and an innovative multi-stream viewing experience, the partnership aims to attract new fans and deepen engagement with existing enthusiasts.