Apple to exclusively broadcast Formula 1 races in the US
What's the story
In a major development, Apple has announced a five-year partnership with Formula 1 (F1) to become its exclusive broadcast partner in the US. The deal will come into effect in 2026 and replace the current ESPN contract. All F1 races will be available exclusively on Apple TV, Apple's rebranded streaming service. Reports suggest that Apple is paying $140 million annually for these rights in the US market.
Free access
Coverage will include all practice, qualifying, and sprint sessions
Apple TV will provide comprehensive coverage of Formula 1, including all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix. However, unlike Apple's MLS service, which requires a separate paid subscription, F1 races will be available for free to Apple TV subscribers. The tech giant also plans to offer some F1 coverage without any subscription requirement at all. This will be limited to "select races and all practice sessions."
Promotion plans
Apple to promote F1 across its other services
Along with broadcasting F1 on Apple TV, the company will promote the sport across its other services. These include Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+. The free iPhone app 'Apple Sports' will also provide live updates for every qualifying round, Sprint session, and race throughout the season. It will feature real-time leaderboards and a dedicated widget for the iPhone Home Screen.
Partnership enthusiasm
Eddy Cue expresses excitement over partnership
Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of Services, expressed his excitement over the new partnership. He said, "We're thrilled to expand our relationship with Formula 1 and offer Apple TV subscribers in the US front-row access to one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports on the planet." The deal is expected to enhance Apple's content offerings and attract more subscribers to its platform.