Share with your friends!

apple tv will be the only place Apple and Formula 1 have entered a significant five-year partnership that will make Apple TV the exclusive home for F1 races in the United States starting in 2026.

apple tv will be the only place

Details of the Partnership

Under this new agreement, Apple TV will provide comprehensive coverage of Formula 1, ensuring that all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix are accessible to subscribers. This move marks a notable shift in the broadcasting landscape for F1 in the U.S., as it will replace the current broadcasting deal with ESPN.

Access and Features

Apple TV subscribers will enjoy a wide array of content related to Formula 1. In addition to the live broadcasts, select races and all practice sessions will be available for free through the Apple TV app, allowing fans who may not subscribe to Apple TV to engage with the sport. This strategy aims to broaden the audience and attract new fans to Formula 1.

Moreover, Apple plans to enhance the viewing experience by integrating F1 content across various platforms within its ecosystem. This includes:

Apple News: Fans can expect timely updates and articles related to races, drivers, and teams.
Apple Maps: Users may find features that highlight race locations, including directions and points of interest around the circuits.
Apple Music: Curated playlists and soundtracks associated with the races may be made available, enhancing the overall experience.
Apple Fitness+: Potentially offering workouts inspired by the physical demands of F1 racing.

Real-Time Updates and Engagement

Apple Sports, the free app available for iPhone users, will play a crucial role in keeping fans engaged. The app will provide live updates for every qualifying session, Sprint, and race throughout the season. Key features will include:

Real-Time Leaderboards: Fans can track the standings of their favorite drivers and teams as races unfold.
Season Driver and Constructor Standings: Comprehensive statistics will be readily available for fans to follow the championship race.
Live Activities: Users can follow the action directly from their Lock Screen, ensuring they never miss a moment.
Home Screen Widgets: A dedicated widget will allow fans to keep track of upcoming races and results at a glance.

Impact on F1 TV Premium

One significant change resulting from this partnership is the discontinuation of F1 TV Premium as a standalone service in the U.S. Previously available for $16.99 per month, F1 TV Premium will now be included as part of the Apple TV subscription, which is currently priced at $12.99 per month. This shift could lead to a more streamlined experience for fans, consolidating their viewing options into a single subscription service.

Financial Implications

According to reports from CNBC, Apple is investing approximately $140 million annually to secure the broadcasting rights for Formula 1 in the United States. This substantial financial commitment underscores Apple’s belief in the potential growth of F1’s audience in the U.S. market. By integrating F1 into its broader ecosystem, Apple aims to leverage its existing user base and attract new subscribers interested in motorsport.

Background on Apple and Formula 1 Collaboration

This partnership is not the first time Apple and Formula 1 have collaborated. Stefano Domenicali, the president and CEO of Formula 1, noted in a press release that the two entities have been working together for the past three years on “F1 The Movie.” This film achieved remarkable success, becoming the highest-grossing sports movie of all time, with earnings exceeding $629 million. Domenicali expressed optimism that the magic of the film could translate into the live racing experience.

Apple’s Vision for Sports

Apple’s Eddy Cue, who oversees Apple’s content and services, expressed enthusiasm about expanding the relationship with Formula 1. He stated, “We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Formula 1 and offer Apple TV subscribers in the U.S. front-row access to one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports on the planet.” This sentiment reflects Apple’s broader strategy to enhance its sports offerings and engage users through live events and exclusive content.

Future Developments and Expectations

While the details of the partnership are still unfolding, several aspects remain to be clarified. Apple has indicated plans to amplify F1 content across its various applications, but specifics on how this will be executed are yet to be disclosed. Fans can expect more information in the coming months as Apple prepares for the 2026 season.

Stakeholder Reactions

The announcement has elicited a range of reactions from stakeholders within the motorsport community. Fans are generally excited about the prospect of having a dedicated platform for F1 content, particularly given Apple’s reputation for high-quality production and user experience. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential loss of F1 TV Premium as a standalone service, especially among fans who may not wish to subscribe to Apple TV.

Industry analysts are also closely monitoring this partnership, viewing it as a strategic move that could reshape the landscape of sports broadcasting in the U.S. The integration of F1 content into Apple’s ecosystem may set a precedent for other sports leagues looking to partner with tech companies for exclusive broadcasting rights.

Conclusion

As Apple and Formula 1 embark on this new chapter, the implications for fans, stakeholders, and the broader sports broadcasting landscape are significant. With Apple TV set to become the exclusive home for F1 in the U.S., the partnership promises to deliver an enhanced viewing experience that leverages Apple’s technology and reach. As the 2026 season approaches, fans will be eager to see how this collaboration unfolds and what innovative features Apple will introduce to engage motorsport enthusiasts.

Source: Original report