Apple locks in exclusive U.S. F1 rights from 2026 — here’s what fans need to know
Formula 1 is switching lanes in the United States. From the 2026 season, Apple TV will become the sport’s exclusive live broadcaster across the country in a five-year deal that redraws the map for American viewers and ends F1’s current split between ESPN and F1TV.
It’s a big play. Industry estimates put Apple’s spend at roughly $150 million per year — a significant step up from ESPN’s reported $90m — and a hint at how aggressively Cupertino wants to plant its flag in live sport. Apple executives have already signaled they’re thinking long-term, but the five-year term gives both sides room to renegotiate if the landscape shifts.
What changes for fans
– One subscription, no bolt-ons: Live F1 coverage will sit inside the standard Apple TV subscription in the U.S. — currently $12.99/month. Unlike Apple’s MLS package, there won’t be a separate “Season Pass” for F1.
– Some free sessions: Apple says a selection of races and practice sessions will stream for free. Which ones? To be confirmed closer to 2026.
– ESPN era ends: The current arrangement with ESPN (which leaned heavily on Sky Sports’ commentary) sunsets at the end of 2025.
What happens to F1TV in the U.S.
– F1TV Pro and F1TV Premium are set to be phased out for U.S.-based users from 2026, with their headline features — multi-camera options, onboard access, data overlays, 4K/HDR where available — moving under the Apple TV umbrella.
– F1TV Access will remain available in the U.S. That tier doesn’t include live races, but it keeps live timing, telemetry, maps, archive content, team radio recaps and F1TV-original programming.
Who’s talking over the pictures?
Formula One Management (FOM) will still produce the world feed — the cameras, replays, graphics, the lot — which Apple will carry. The open question is whether Apple builds its own commentary and shoulder programming or licenses an existing setup. ESPN previously used Sky’s audio; NBC, before that, ran its own booth. Apple hasn’t shown its hand yet, but expect clarity well before car covers come off in ’26.
How to watch if you’re not in Apple’s ecosystem
No iPhone? No problem. Apple TV is widely available as an app on most smart TVs and streaming sticks, and it works in a web browser too. You will need an Apple ID to sign in. Android-only households can create one for free and use it to access the Apple TV app on their television or via the web.
Features you’ve been asking for
– MultiView: Yes, Apple says it will support MultiView-style functionality akin to what U.S. fans know from F1TV Premium — think onboard splits, data tiles, and more.
– Picture quality: 4K Ultra HD with HDR is in the plan where the production allows.
– Support series: Live coverage of Formula 2, Formula 3, F1 Academy and Porsche Supercup will be included on Apple TV in the U.S.
Why this matters
The U.S. has become a centerpiece of F1’s growth — three races, packed grandstands, and a fanbase that’s learned to set weekend alarms for sessions on the other side of the world. Apple’s move bundles that momentum into a single platform and, crucially, a single price. If Apple hits the right note on presentation and access, the barrier to entry lowers for casual fans without penalizing the hardcore.
The caveats
There are still blanks to fill in: which races will stream free, the exact shape of Apple’s studio and commentary offer, and how deep the interactive tools will go on day one. But the framework is set: from 2026, Apple is the only place to watch live F1 in the U.S., and the features American fans have paid extra for on F1TV Pro will live there.
Quick answers
– Start date: 2026 season, for five years.
– Price: Included with Apple TV at current U.S. pricing (subject to Apple’s usual changes).
– Extra fees: None for F1 beyond the base subscription.
– F1TV in the U.S.: Pro and Premium go away in 2026; Access remains (no live races).
– Devices: Smart TV apps, streaming sticks, game consoles, web browsers. Apple ID required.
– Support series: F2, F3, F1 Academy, and Porsche Supercup live on Apple TV.
Next year is the final lap for ESPN’s run. After that, F1 in America goes fully Apple — a clean start just as the sport enters a new era in 2026. Now the question becomes presentation: will Apple simply carry the pictures, or reinvent how a Sunday afternoon Grand Prix feels on your sofa? We’ll find out soon enough.
