Formula 1 fans in the United States have a new home for live race coverage: Apple TV. Following a five-year partnership announced in October 2025, Apple has launched a dedicated Formula 1 channel within the Apple TV app, signaling a significant shift in how American audiences will consume the sport. The move comes on the heels of the success of Apple Original Films’ F1: Drive to Survive, which helped fuel a surge in the sport’s popularity in the US.
The new channel, now live, offers a preview of the upcoming 2026 season and beyond. Apple’s commitment to Formula 1 extends beyond simply broadcasting the races; the company aims to integrate the sport across its ecosystem of services, including Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+. This comprehensive approach is designed to enhance the fan experience and drive further growth for Formula 1 in the US market.
While a full Apple TV subscription is required for comprehensive coverage, select races and all practice sessions will be available for free throughout the season, making the sport more accessible to a wider audience. This tiered access model aims to balance exclusivity with broader reach, a strategy increasingly common in the streaming landscape. The launch of the dedicated channel provides a glimpse into what fans can expect when the season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix next month.
Interestingly, the presentation of the races themselves will likely differ from previous broadcasts. The Apple TV channel currently lists “Event Schedule: Sky Sports,” suggesting Apple will utilize Sky Sports’ commentary team rather than developing its own in-house broadcasting crew – a similar approach to that taken by ESPN during its previous Formula 1 broadcast rights. Engadget first reported on this detail, noting the potential implications for the viewing experience.
What’s Included with an Apple TV Formula 1 Subscription?
Subscribers to Apple TV will gain access to a wealth of Formula 1 content, including all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, Sprint sessions, and the Grands Prix themselves. Beyond the live races, the Apple TV channel also features highlights from the 2025 season and a detailed overview of the rule changes coming into effect for the 2026 season. Apple’s Formula 1 channel page details the available content and subscription options.
For dedicated fans, the F1 TV Premium package is now included with an Apple TV subscription, offering even more in-depth coverage. This includes access to driver cams, live team radios, and behind-the-scenes content. The Apple Sports app – a free app for iPhone – will also provide live updates for every qualifying, Sprint, and race, complete with real-time leaderboards and Lock Screen Live Activities.
Apple’s Broader Integration of Formula 1
Apple’s investment in Formula 1 goes beyond simply broadcasting the races. The company is leveraging its entire ecosystem to enhance the fan experience. Apple News will provide Formula 1 coverage, while Apple Maps will offer insights into race tracks and locations. Apple Music will curate playlists inspired by the sport, and Apple Fitness+ may incorporate Formula 1-themed workouts. This cross-platform integration is a key component of Apple’s strategy to deepen its engagement with Formula 1 fans.
The partnership between Apple and Formula 1, as announced by Apple, is a five-year deal, solidifying the company’s commitment to the sport through at least 2030. Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services, stated the company is “thrilled to expand our relationship with Formula 1 and offer Apple TV subscribers in the U.S. Front-row access to one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports on the planet.”
The subscription to Apple TV with access to Formula 1 content is priced at $12.99 per month after a 7-day free trial. As the 2026 season approaches, Apple will likely unveil further details regarding its broadcast presentation and the full extent of its integrated Formula 1 experience. Fans can expect a dynamic and elevated viewing experience as Apple puts its technological prowess behind one of the world’s most thrilling sports.
What remains to be seen is how Apple will evolve its Formula 1 coverage over the course of the five-year partnership. The initial integration with Sky Sports commentary suggests a cautious approach, but Apple has the potential to significantly innovate the Formula 1 broadcast experience. Keep an eye on further announcements from Apple and Formula 1 as the 2026 season draws closer.
What are your thoughts on Apple becoming the exclusive broadcaster for Formula 1 in the US? Share your opinions in the comments below!