Netflix will broadcast a Formula 1 Grand Prix live for the first time

For several years, the Formula 1 is experiencing spectacular growth in the United States, largely attributed to the cultural impact of the Netflix series « Drive to Survive »By acquiring the US broadcasting rights previously held by ESPN, Apple intends to capitalize on this momentum and further expand its audience. Eddy Cue, Apple's senior vice president of services, hailed the deal as unexpected but strategic. « We're thrilled to announce something that I think no one expected. […] Netflix has, in my opinion, played a pivotal role in the rise of F1 since the launch of Drive to Survive, and we're delighted to make F1 content more widely available to new and existing American fans on both Netflix and Apple TV. »

Under the terms of this cross-agreement, Netflix will offer the Canadian Grand Prix live to American subscribers next May, while Apple TV will add the new season of the other streaming giant's flagship series to its catalog. For Netflix, the deal is doubly advantageous: it allows them to enter the arena of live F1 broadcasting for the first time, while also increasing the visibility of « Drive to Survive. »

While the platform will only broadcast one live event, Apple TV will offer the entire season (with the exception of certain races that may be streamed for free). The multinational founded by Tim Cook promises an unprecedented immersive experience for American fans, with, for example, up to four simultaneous video streams thanks to a multi-screen option, a "driver tracker" and a channel dedicated to real-time data, "Podiums channels" allowing users to automatically follow the three leaders via their onboard cameras. Apple subscribers will also have access to team-specific channels, combining the international feed, onboard camera footage, and radio broadcasts, and for those already familiar with the channel, it will be possible to follow Sky Sports F1 coverage.

A powerful symbol of the evolution of the F1 model

Apple has chosen not to simply broadcast the standard international feed, but to build an enriched and customizable offering designed for an audience accustomed to interactive experiences. Ian Holmes, Formula 1's Director of Media Rights and Broadcasting, asserted that American fans have never before benefited from such a presentation of the championship. In addition to this partnership, the free platform Tubi will also be able to broadcast certain events under a separate agreement. This strategy clearly aims to maximize the sport's exposure in the United States.

Netflix's entry into live streaming, even on a temporary basis, marks a new stage in the transformation of the sports broadcasting landscape. Formula 1 thus confirms its ability to adapt to new consumption patterns, relying on the streaming platforms that contributed to its growth. This partnership between two streaming giants, long-time direct competitors, primarily illustrates the strategic importance of the American market for F1, and the broadcasters' desire to make it a major testing ground for innovation.

ALSO READ > Apple wins exclusive Formula 1 broadcast rights in the US from 2026