Formula 1 is entering a transformative phase in the United States as Apple secures exclusive broadcasting rights starting in 2026, aiming to redefine how fans engage with the sport. This major partnership, endorsed by Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, signals a new era of streaming and fan experience, leveraging Apple’s technological strengths to expand the sport’s reach and popularity across the country.
Details of Apple’s Exclusive Five-Year Contract
Announced in October 2025, Apple signed a groundbreaking five-year deal reportedly worth $140 million annually, ending Formula 1’s previous broadcasting relationship with ESPN. While ESPN attracted an average of 1.3 million viewers per race in 2025, Apple plans to elevate this number substantially by integrating the entire race weekend into its Apple TV streaming platform.
The new arrangement also includes a collaboration with IMAX, where five selected races will be shown in theaters nationwide, providing fans with an immersive big-screen experience of Formula 1’s thrilling action.
Domenicali Highlights Apple’s Potential to Expand F1’s Audience
Stefano Domenicali expressed enthusiasm about Apple’s role in Formula 1’s growth in the US market, stating,
“When we are talking about Apple in the US, we are talking about a new partner of Formula 1 that believes in us with a great plan of being the protagonist of the growth in the US of the sport through their channels.”
He emphasized the importance of connectivity and Apple’s vast reach, which he believes will bring F1 into more American homes than ever before.
Domenicali further noted,
“Apple is in the hands of the majority of people because it allows everyone to be connected. We want to be connected and relevant, and that’s where we believe we took the right decision to go in this direction.”
ESPN’s Role and the Future Vision with Apple
While acknowledging ESPN’s contributions in building Formula 1’s presence in the US, Domenicali indicated that the future lies with Apple’s more direct, tech-driven engagement strategies. He credited ESPN for its foundational partnership, saying,
“I need to thank them, and as you know, with Disney World, the collaboration is huge in the area of licensing and other things that we are doing together.”
Nevertheless, he is confident about surpassing previous reach, emphasizing,
“The reach that we’re going to have through the streaming platform will be even bigger in the future.”
Apple’s comprehensive streaming approach is expected to offer more content and enhanced integration for Formula 1 TV subscribers via Apple TV, delivering greater value at a lower cost.
Rising Popularity and Targeting New Demographics
Formula 1 is solidifying its presence in the US with growing attendance at marquee races like Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas, along with the ongoing success of the *Drive to Survive* series now in its eighth season. Domenicali highlighted Apple’s advantage in reaching younger fans, including a 40% female demographic, reflecting the sport’s evolving and diverse audience.
He stated,
“We do believe that the partner that we have chosen in the world of streaming is the right one,”
recognizing the maturity of the American streaming market and Apple’s ambition to harness its advanced technology to captivate fans on an unprecedented scale.
Transforming the Future of Formula 1 Broadcasting
This alliance represents a pivotal moment for Formula 1 in the United States, as the partnership with Apple promises to accelerate the sport’s expansion and modernize how it is consumed. By capitalizing on Apple’s extensive ecosystem and streaming capabilities, Formula 1 aims to engage fans in deeper and more innovative ways, potentially setting new standards for sports broadcasting.
The impact is expected to ripple beyond viewership, contributing to a broader cultural presence and positioning Formula 1 as a more dominant force in one of the world’s largest entertainment markets.
