Apple TV is targeting the global rights to Formula 1

Apple TV has reached a significant milestone in its development by becoming, since 2026, the exclusive broadcaster of the Formula 1 In the United States, a five-year agreement has been signed, estimated by some sources at $160 million annually—well above the $90 million previously paid by ESPN (Disney+). American fans must subscribe to the platform to watch the races.

A gamble that already seems to be paying off. The first four rounds of the season have recorded solid ratings, confirming a growing enthusiasm for the sport across the Atlantic.. “We are delighted to strengthen our partnership with Formula 1 and offer Apple TV subscribers in the United States privileged access to one of the most exciting and dynamic sports on the planet.”"said Eddy Cue, head of services at Apple."

ALSO READ > Apple will broadcast five Formula 1 Grand Prix races in IMAX cinemas in the United States.

Competing against the streaming giants

While the United States is a first step, Apple makes no secret of its ambitions. “Starting with the United States, which is a huge market for us, is the right way to go. But it would be fantastic to expand elsewhere.”"This strategy could be reinforced by the recent success of the Formula 1 film produced by Apple TV. With approximately $630 million in revenue on an estimated budget of $200 million, it is the highest-grossing sports film of all time," Eddy Cue told Reuters.com. When asked about a possible sequel, the executive expressed confidence."I hope and expect there will be one." says Eddy Cue.

ALSO READ > Lewis Hamilton discusses the sequel to the F1 film: "We are already working on the first script."

Despite these ambitions, Apple TV still lags behind the streaming giants. At the end of 2025, the platform ranked only ninth globally in terms of subscribers with 45 million, far behind Netflix (the current leader) and its 300 million users. But the tech giant is banking on its technological innovations to stand out, particularly with 4K streaming, which few broadcasters currently offer. The project also has top-level support within the company. The new CEO, John Ternus, Tim Cook's successor and a motorsport enthusiast, is pushing hard to bring the project to fruition. “John participates in amateur races. He’s a huge F1 fan and he’s aware of this initiative; he fully supports us.” " says Eddy Cue.

Could Apple TV's international expansion of Formula 1 rights threaten broadcasters on the European continent? In France, Canal+ holds the rights until 2029. While a partnership already exists between the two groups allowing Apple content to be streamed on Canal+'s platform, an Apple offensive on the track could shake things up in the near future.

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