Apple In Talks to Secure American Formula 1 Rights After Successful Film Release
In a move that’s making waves in the tech and sports worlds, Apple Inc. (NASDAQ:AAPL) is reportedly in serious negotiations to obtain the American rights to Formula 1 races. This story comes on the heels of the monumental success of the film “F1,” which stars Hollywood heavyweight Brad Pitt. Could the tech giant be the next big player in motorsport broadcasting?
Apple’s Potential Deal with Formula 1
According to a recent report by the Financial Times, Apple is engaged in discussions to secure the American broadcasting rights for Formula 1. These rights are currently held by ESPN, which is owned by The Walt Disney Company (NYSE:DIS). The deal could be finalized once ESPN’s exclusive negotiation period expires.
The current arrangement between ESPN and Formula 1 is highly lucrative. ESPN currently pays between $75 to $90 million annually for the rights. This reflects a significant increase from the previous deal where ESPN paid only $5 million per year. Apple, however, with the success of its blockbuster film, might be willing to up the ante.
The Impact of Brad Pitt’s “F1” Film on Viewership
The film “F1” has been a massive success for Apple, pulling in $112.7 million at the U.S. box office and $301.2 million globally within just 12 days of its release. This blockbuster hit has likely expanded the fan base for Formula 1, adding to the theme that film and sports can synergize for greater viewership.
Apple TV+’s Push into Sports
Apple TV+, Apple’s streaming platform, has been steadily moving into the sports sector. Recently, it has gained exclusivity rights for Major League Soccer and parts of Major League Baseball. Securely acquiring Formula 1 could firmly position Apple TV+ as a leading sports streaming platform and open up more opportunities for an advertising-funded tier, expected to launch soon.
Whyть This Deal Matters
ESPN has had a long-standing relationship with Formula 1, and their current coverage is seen as highly successful. For instance, the recent Formula 1 races have seen a 7 percent increase in average viewership compared to the same period last year. However, Apple’s foray into this domain could upend traditional broadcasting dynamics.
The growing interest in Formula 1 in the U.S. adds another layer to this. Families like Netflix’s “Drive to Survive” and the increasing number of races being held in the country have boosted the sport’s popularity. By 2025, the league has planned three races in the U.S., including races in Miami, Texas, and Las Vegas, along with an additional 11th team from the U.S.
Formula 1’s Viewership Surge
Formula 1, with its increasing parity in the league, has witnessed higher viewer engagement. Max Verstappen, the four-time consecutive champion, is now in third place in the 2025 season, creating more suspense and unpredictability. This parity has led to more Deutsche television records being smashed, boosting ESPN’s viewership.
Looking Ahead
Apple’s interest in Formula 1 rights signals a strategic push into a rapidly growing market. With the future of streaming services increasingly focused on sports, this potential deal could solidify Apple TV+’s position as a mainstream contender. For investors, the implications are significant. Apple’s potential entry into Formula 1 broadcasting offers a financial windfall and further diversification of its entertainment portfolio.
Stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest updates on this Deal and more groundbreaking news from the tech and sports worlds. Don’t miss out on the critical insights and expert analysis that only we can provide.
