Formula 1 is accelerating its push into the American market with a landmark partnership with Apple TV, aiming to elevate the sport’s profile to rival that of the NFL, NBA, and MLS. The collaboration, set to begin with the 2026 season, marks a significant shift in how US audiences will consume Formula 1 racing, with Apple becoming the exclusive broadcast partner in the United States, replacing ESPN after decades of coverage. This strategic move is part of a broader effort to embed F1 deeper within American culture, according to Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali.
Domenicali articulated his vision during a press event in Los Angeles alongside Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services. He emphasized the partnership as a “beautiful opportunity” to connect with American fans through Apple TV, stating, “That’s a beautiful opportunity that we’re going to do with passion, with determination, because we are resilient,” as reported by Formula1.com. The move comes on the heels of the success of “F1: Drive to Survive” and the Apple Original Film, “F1 The Movie,” which has garnered four Academy Award nominations for Best Picture, Visual Effects, Sound, and Film Editing.
The five-year agreement between Apple and Formula 1, announced in October 2025, will deliver comprehensive coverage of the sport on Apple TV, including all practice, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix. Select races and all practice sessions will also be available for free within the Apple TV app, broadening accessibility for potential fans. Apple will also integrate Formula 1 content across its other platforms, including Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+, further amplifying the sport’s reach. The Apple Newsroom announcement highlighted a commitment to innovation and fan experience as the driving force behind the partnership.
The “Apple Effect” and a Cultural Shift
Domenicali envisions a future where Formula 1 is as ingrained in the American sporting landscape as the Super Bowl or major league sports. “I always said to Eddy, we have a dream that is more than a dream – it’s an obligation to our fans to develop the sport, to make sure that F1 is becoming a part of the culture here in the United States,” he explained, according to Yahoo Sports. He hopes to see Americans waking up to follow Formula 1 alongside their traditional sporting favorites.
The partnership builds on the momentum generated by “F1 The Movie,” directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer, which featured Hollywood stars like Brad Pitt, Javier Bardem, and Damson Idris alongside real-life F1 drivers. Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton also served as an executive producer on the film, adding to its authenticity. Since its release in June 2025, the film has exceeded $630 million at the global box office, demonstrating a growing interest in the sport.
What to Expect with Apple TV’s Coverage
Beyond the broadcast rights, Apple is enhancing the viewing experience with Apple Sports, a free app for iPhone that will provide live updates, leaderboards, standings, and Live Activities for every Grand Prix. F1 TV Premium, Formula 1’s existing content offering, will continue to be available in the US through an Apple TV subscription, and will be included as a free benefit for subscribers. The Motorsport.com reports that the Apple TV Formula 1 channel is now live, signaling the imminent transition.
The shift to Apple TV marks the end of ESPN’s long-standing relationship with Formula 1 in the United States. While ESPN played a crucial role in growing the sport’s popularity, Apple’s extensive reach and integrated ecosystem are expected to unlock new opportunities for fan engagement and revenue growth. The partnership is a bold bet on the future of sports broadcasting and Formula 1’s potential to become a mainstream phenomenon in the US.
As Formula 1 prepares for the 2026 season, the focus will be on leveraging Apple’s platform to reach a wider audience and cultivate a new generation of American F1 fans. The success of this venture will depend on Apple’s ability to deliver a compelling viewing experience and effectively integrate Formula 1 content across its various services. The coming months will be critical as both organizations work to ensure a smooth transition and capitalize on the excitement surrounding this groundbreaking partnership.
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