The future of sports broadcasting could experience a significant change. Following Apple's latest moves in the audiovisual market, in recent months, the Cupertino company has intensified its commitment to offering live content on its Apple TV+ platform, beyond the series and films that formed its initial base. After the success of sports productions such as Major League Soccer (MLS) and Major League Baseball (MLB), Formula 1 is now emerging as the next big goal.
Several international media have revealed that Apple is in advanced negotiations to acquire the Formula 1 broadcasting rights in the United States starting in 2026. This venture, which could mark a turning point in the way we consume motorsports, comes at a time when F1 viewership in North America continues to grow, also driven by the impact of the film about the World Championship produced by Apple itself.
A multi-million dollar offer that shakes up the sector
Apple has introduced a offer of at least $150 million annually to acquire the rights, practically doubling the amount currently paid by ESPN (a Disney subsidiary) for the broadcast. This move places the technology company as the favorite to replace ESPN, whose contract expires at the end of 2025. Sources close to the negotiations claim that the competition has decided not to match Apple's offer, paving the way for a change of hands.
As for the price, Apple's proposal doubles the roughly $85-90 million per season currently paid by ESPN. The intention is clear: Turn Formula 1 into one of the pillars of Apple's sports offering and consolidate live streaming as a differentiating element compared to other competitors in the sector such as Netflix, Disney+ or Amazon.
One of the most talked about aspects by fans is the possibility that The races are included in the basic Apple TV+ subscription at no additional cost., at least initially, something that could revolutionize access to elite sports in the US. However, it remains to be seen how Apple will structure these rights and whether it will opt for premium packages in the future.
F1, cinema and sports: Apple's synergy
Apple's commitment to Formula 1 is no coincidence. The recent launch of 'F1: The Movie', starring Brad Pitt and featuring figures such as Carlos Sainz and Fernando Alonso, has strengthened the company's ties to the world of motorsports. The film has grossed over $300 million at the global box office in its first few weeks and will serve as a catalyst for new audiovisual and documentary projects, including one about driver Lewis Hamilton.
Within the streaming sector, Apple's initiative opens the door to a new era of competition between big tech companies interested in live events and attracting millions of subscribers. F1 audiences in the US have grown significantly in recent years, fueled in part by the popularity of the Netflix documentary series 'Drive to Survive' and the addition of new Grand Prix events like Miami and Las Vegas.
An open future for F1 fans
Digital access and the ability to watch races from anywhere in the world—for example, via VPN and country selection in the app—is something that many fans already use for other sports, and this could be extended to Formula 1 if international rights are eventually integrated. For now, the initial agreement is limited to the United States, although the door is open to new acquisitions in other markets as the contracts in each country expire.
The impact of this transaction could also strengthen F1's global popularity and boost Apple's presence in the live sports sector, benefiting from its technological and marketing capabilities. The company seeks not only to retain the loyalty of its current fans but also to attract new generations through an ecosystem that combines film, exclusive content, and streaming sports.
