Netflix and Apple TV have announced a unique collaboration set to transform how fans experience Formula 1 beginning in 2026. This partnership merges Netflix’s acclaimed docuseries “Formula 1: Drive to Survive” with live race broadcasts, offering viewers both the thrilling behind-the-scenes moments and every on-track event live. The announcement was made by Mark Cipolloni, signaling a significant shift in sports streaming.
Exclusive Streaming Agreement and New Season Release
Season 8 of “Drive to Survive” will launch simultaneously worldwide on Netflix and exclusively on Apple TV within the United States starting February 27. This season captures the intense 2025 FIA Formula One World Championship, marking the sport’s 75th anniversary. Fans can expect to see six rookie drivers debut, fierce rivalries between teammates, pivotal changes in driver lineups and management, and a championship battle decided only at the season’s final moment. With updated technical regulations looming for 2026, the competition remains tighter than ever among the 10 teams and 20 drivers on the grid.
Expanded Viewing Access for Both Casual and Dedicated Fans
The collaboration aims to deepen engagement for all types of Formula 1 fans. According to the official announcement,
“Drive to Survive fans have a new way to go deeper into the sport through a new collaboration between Apple and Netflix,”
emphasizing how both casual followers and hardcore enthusiasts will benefit from broader access to racing content.
Apple TV to Become the U.S. Home for Full 2026 Season Coverage
Apple TV will hold exclusive broadcasting rights in the United States for the entire 2026 Formula 1 season. This includes comprehensive coverage of all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, Sprint races, and Grand Prix events, starting with the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix on the weekend of March 5. This transfer of rights from ESPN positions Apple as the leading U.S. platform for immersive Formula 1 coverage.
Netflix’s Introduction of Live U.S. Race Broadcasts
In a reciprocal arrangement, Netflix will air live coverage of the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix from May 22 to 24, marking the streaming service’s first live Formula 1 race broadcast in the United States. This development allows long-time “Drive to Survive” viewers to witness the rivalries and unfolding drama they have followed through the series in real time on screen.
Enhanced Accessibility Signals a New Era for American Formula 1 Fans
As Apple TV takes over broadcasting rights from ESPN and Netflix expands into live sports offerings, 2026 promises to be the most accessible year for Formula 1 enthusiasts in the United States. Whether fans are engaging with the intense narratives of the 2025 season through Season 8 or preparing for the live thrills of the upcoming season, the Netflix and Apple partnership creates an unprecedented opportunity to follow the sport closely.
