Max Verstappen, driving the Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20, showcased his skills at the F1 Grand Prix of Mexico, where he led competitors Carlos Sainz in the Ferrari SF-24 and Lando Norris in the McLaren MCL38 Mercedes into the first turn. This thrilling race highlighted Verstappen’s prowess as he continues to dominate the season.
In a significant development for motorsport fans, Apple and Formula 1 announced a groundbreaking five-year media rights deal on Friday, set to commence in 2026. This partnership will make every Formula 1 race accessible on Apple TV, expanding the channel’s content offerings. Subscribers will enjoy comprehensive coverage of all F1 events, including practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and Sprint races, all included in the existing ad-free subscription priced at $12.99 per month. Moreover, certain races and practice sessions will be available for free through the Apple TV app, enhancing accessibility for fans.
This strategy diverges from Apple’s arrangement with Major League Soccer, as the latter requires an additional fee through the MLS Season Pass for exclusive game access. Reports indicate that Apple is set to invest approximately $140 million annually for these Formula 1 rights, a significant increase from ESPN’s previous average payment of about $85 million per year.
ESPN, the former media partner, expressed pride in their association with Formula 1 in the U.S. and conveyed optimism for a strong conclusion to their final season together. While F1 TV Premium, the league’s own streaming service, will remain available, it will now require an Apple TV subscription, integrating its offerings into Apple’s ecosystem.
The collaboration promises an enhanced viewing experience, featuring commentary from both F1 TV and Sky’s broadcast announcers. This partnership not only indicates a growing interest in Formula 1 but also reflects Apple’s commitment to delivering high-quality sports content to its audience, making it a hopeful prospect for motorsport enthusiasts as they anticipate the future of F1 on Apple TV.