Apple Takes the Wheel: Formula 1 Heads Exclusively to Apple TV in the U.S.

Sunday, 19 October 2025 at 00:50

Apple is sliding firmly into the driver’s seat of live sports. The company has sealed a five-year partnership with Formula 1, making Apple TV the only place for American viewers to stream every F1 race and event starting in 2026.

For fans, this means a complete season under one digital roof — practice runs, qualifying sessions, sprint races, and the main Grand Prix. Some weekends will stream free of charge, while Apple Sports will feed live timing, driver data, and updated standings straight to your screen.

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Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior VP of Services, described the deal as more than a rights agreement.

“We’re excited to bring a fresh way of watching Formula 1,” he said. “Next year will be a turning point for the sport, and we want to deliver that thrill with the attention to detail Apple is known for.”

The company isn’t stopping at the broadcast itself. Apple Music will launch an official F1 playlist built around the rhythm and energy of the track, while Apple Fitness+ will roll out new workouts inspired by driver endurance programs. It’s a clever way to weave Formula 1 into Apple’s broader ecosystem — entertainment meets lifestyle, with a pulse.

This exclusivity applies only to the U.S., so viewers in other countries will keep tuning in through their usual networks. Still, Apple’s entry sends a clear signal: live sports are the next frontier for premium streaming. After baseball and soccer, Formula 1 gives Apple the global stage it’s been aiming for — and a fiercely loyal audience.

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The move follows the success of F1: The Drive, Apple’s original film that roared past $629 million at the global box office earlier this year. That hit proved there’s real appetite for F1 content beyond the racetrack — and likely helped pave the road for this long-term deal.

With this partnership, Apple isn’t just buying broadcast rights; it’s redefining how fans experience Formula 1. In the race for streaming dominance, the company has found its fastest lane yet.

Key Points

Apple TV becomes the exclusive U.S. broadcaster for Formula 1 from 2026.
The deal spans five years and covers all official race events.
Integration with Apple Music and Apple Fitness+ expands F1’s digital footprint.
Some content remains free-to-watch, with enhanced data via Apple Sports.
Follows the success of Apple’s F1: The Drive movie, signaling a deeper strategy in sports entertainment.