An F1-Apple TV deal was confirmed by the tech giant at this weekend’s Austin Grand Prix. As such, Formula 1 coverage will move from ESPN to Apple TV in the United States in 2026. It is an exclusive five-year broadcasting agreement reportedly worth ‘hundreds of millions of dollars.’
The F1-Apple TV deal marks the tech giant’s most ambitious push yet into live sports. And it deepens ties between the two following the box-office success of F1 The Movie, which is already the highest-grossing sports film of all time.
F1-APPLE TV DEAL
Apple said in a statement that the partnership would deliver ‘comprehensive coverage of Formula 1’ for all subscribers. This will include every practice, qualifying, sprint and grand prix. And select sessions will be available for free on the Apple TV app.
The sport’s supremo, Stefano Domenicali, hailed the new F1-Apple TV deal as: “An incredibly exciting partnership to strengthen the sport in America. We have a shared vision to entice new fans through live broadcasts, engaging content and a year-round approach to keep them hooked,” he said. Industry insiders confirm the deal’s value far surpasses the previous ESPN contract.
F1 BOSSES WELCOME THE MOVE
In Austin, Formula 1 team bosses welcomed the move:
- “They had a fantastic movie which kind of whet everyone’s appetite. If you think about the reach of the different platforms they have, there’s a lot of enthusiasm. Eddie Cue of Apple TV has a lot of passion for Formula 1, and that always helps. We’re going to work with them closely and are excited to see what next year looks like,” said McLaren CEO Zak Brown.
- “I definitely believe this is going to be a big boost for us – not only in the United States, but also all around the world. When you have the buy-in from senior leaders like Eddie at Apple, you’re in a good place. It doesn’t go much better than this F1-Apple TV deal,” said Mercedes boss Toto Wolff.
- The reach is going to be incredible. We’ve been improving the US fan base for so many years. Then suddenly you discover a completely new land and new potential with this F1-Apple TV deal and it’s super exciting for all the fans,” said Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies. – with GMM
