Apple has secured US broadcast rights to Formula One in a five-year agreement aimed at enhancing its streaming service. The financial specifics of the deal were not disclosed, but sources indicate that it could cost around $140 million annually, a substantial increase from the $90 million per year previously paid by ESPN, which has broadcast F1 since 2018.
The deal is set to commence next year, with F1 content streaming on Apple TV. Despite winning 22 Emmy awards this year, Apple TV has been criticized for its limited competitive reach compared to industry giants like Netflix and Disney+, despite significant investments in original content.
This addition to Apple’s portfolio follows its existing sports offerings, including Major League Soccer and Friday Night Baseball, highlighting a strategic push into live sports broadcasting. The streaming industry has seen increased competition for live sports rights, which are pivotal for attracting dedicated viewers, reducing subscriber turnover, and boosting advertising revenue.
Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice-president of services, expressed enthusiasm about expanding the relationship with Formula One, stating that the partnership would offer Apple TV subscribers in the US access to the sport. Under this agreement, all practice sessions, qualifying events, sprint sessions, and grand prix races will be available on Apple TV, with certain features also offered for free in the Apple TV app.
This initiative follows the success of an Apple-produced F1 film, which has reportedly grossed over $628 million globally. The film is scheduled for its global streaming debut on Apple TV on December 12. Additionally, Formula One experienced a surge in popularity last year, adding nearly 90 million new fans, with significant growth noted in China following the sport’s post-Covid return to that market.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/media/2025/oct/17/apple-f1-us-tv-rights