Apple is set to change the landscape of U.S. Formula 1 broadcasting after reportedly submitting a $150 million bid to acquire the television rights starting in 2026. This new bid demonstrates a significant leap, as it surpasses Disney’s ESPN’s current rights deal of $75 million. ESPN, which holds exclusive rights through the 2025 season, appears to be stepping back, allowing Apple a clearer path to the broadcast rights.
The strategic move follows the impressive success of Apple Studios’ “F1: The Movie,” which has grossed over $300 million globally. Apple hopes this newfound interest from movie viewers will translate into subscriptions for their streaming service, Apple TV. Currently, Apple TV boasts around 45 million subscribers, while Netflix, which played a pivotal role in popularizing Formula 1 through its series “Drive To Survive,” holds 85 million subscribers in the U.S.
With the backing of a major film and a push for a broader sports content footprint, Apple is enthusiastic about tapping into Formula 1’s expanding fanbase. The growing visibility of F1, especially among casual fans stimulated by Netflix’s offerings, positions Apple well. However, the challenge is that new fans may not easily transition to a subscription-based service when they previously could access races through traditional cable packages.
Longtime F1 fans are expected to jump at the opportunity to watch the races, yet there’s uncertainty regarding how many new fans will be motivated to subscribe. Apple isn’t just entering the sports broadcasting arena; it’s attempting to bridge the gap between sports and entertainment, leveraging its existing platform to attract viewers.
As Apple gears up for this significant move, their commitment reflects the burgeoning popularity of Formula 1, which has captured the attention of diverse demographics. Although the practical implications of this transition for both the audience and the sport itself remain to be seen, Apple’s substantial investment likely indicates an optimistic outlook for the future of F1 broadcasting.