Key Highlights
- Apple Inc. will become the exclusive broadcast partner for Formula 1 in the United States starting from 2026.
- The agreement is part of a five-year partnership, following the success of F1 The Movie, an Apple Original Film.
- 47% of new U.S. F1 fans are aged 18-24, underlining the potential for expansion among younger demographics through this partnership.
- Apple will amplify Formula 1 across multiple platforms including Apple News, Apple Maps, and Apple Fitness+ in addition to Apple TV.
The Formula 1-Apple Partnership: A Strategic Move for Global Expansion
Formula 1 has announced a landmark five-year partnership with Apple Inc., marking the technology giant’s exclusive broadcasting rights as the sport’s sole U.S. broadcast partner from 2026 onwards. This strategic move underscores Apple’s ambition to expand its reach and engage with new audiences, particularly in markets where Formula 1 is still growing. The partnership builds on an existing collaboration that culminated in the highly successful F1 The Movie, which premiered in cinemas globally earlier this year.
Engaging a Diverse Audience
The demographic of U.S. F1 fans highlights significant opportunities for growth and engagement. According to the 2025 Global F1 Fan Survey, nearly half (47%) of new U.S. fans who have been following Formula 1 for five years or less are aged between 18 and 24, while over half are female.
This younger, more diverse audience presents a compelling case for Apple’s involvement in broadcasting the sport. Apple can leverage its vast user base across platforms such as Apple News, Maps, Music, Sports, and Fitness+ to reach these potential new fans.
Amplifying Formula 1 Across Apple Ecosystem
The partnership will see Apple TV host all Free Practice, Qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix. Select races and all Free Practice sessions throughout the season will also be available for free through the Apple TV app. Additionally, F1 TV Premium, which is currently exclusive to an Apple TV subscription in the U.S., will remain accessible through this medium. The collaboration extends beyond just television broadcasts, with Apple planning to integrate Formula 1 content across various other services.
Leaders Speak on the Partnership
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership: “This is an incredibly exciting partnership for both Formula 1 and Apple that will ensure we can continue to maximise our growth potential in the U.S. with the right content and innovative distribution channels.” He highlighted the shared vision between the two brands to engage new fans through live broadcasts, engaging content, and a year-round approach.
Eddy Cue, Senior Vice President of Services at Apple, echoed these sentiments: “We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Formula 1 and offer Apple TV users front row access to one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports on the planet. 2026 marks a transformative new era for Formula 1 from new teams to new regulations and cars with the best drivers in the world, and we look forward to delivering premium and innovative fan-first coverage to our customers in a way that only Apple can.” The partnership aligns perfectly with both brands’ goals of innovation and excellence.
The combination of Formula 1’s prestige and Apple’s technological prowess positions this as a significant milestone for the sport. As Formula 1 continues to evolve, the partnership is expected to drive increased viewership and engagement among U.S. audiences, potentially expanding the global reach of both brands.
