Motorsport TechnologyOn the eve of the US Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, tech giants Apple has announced that it will become the sport’s exclusive U.S. broadcast partner from 2026 in an initial five-year deal.
In the official press release, Apple announced the deal as a partnership that ‘brings together two global brands with a shared passion for innovation, excellence, and entertainment.’
The announcement comes hot on the heels of the success of F1® The Movie starring Brad Pitt and produced by Lewis Hamilton, which makes its global streaming debut on Apple TV on Friday 12 December 2025.
With significant investment from Apple, the movie has grossed nearly $630 million globally to date, making it the most successful sports movie in history.
“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.,” commented Eddy Cue, Apple‘s Senior Vice President of Services.
“2026 marks a transformative new era for Formula 1 from new teams to new regulations and cars with the best drivers in the world, and we look forward to delivering premium and innovative fan-first coverage to our customers in a way that only Apple can.”
Formula 1 has a new home in the US. Watch every Grand Prix of the 2026 season live on Apple TV. Don’t miss it. pic.twitter.com/tgXI8NkGWe
— Apple TV (@AppleTV) October 17, 2025
This new broadcast agreement will see Apple TV host all practice, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix. Select races, and all practice sessions throughout the season will also be available to watch for free in the Apple TV app.
F1 TV Premium, F1’s own premier content offering, will continue to be available in the U.S. via an Apple TV subscription only and will be free for those who subscribe. In addition to showing Formula 1 on Apple TV, Apple will amplify the sport across Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, Apple Sports, and Apple Fitness+.
“This is an incredibly exciting partnership for both Formula 1 and Apple that will ensure we can continue to maximise our growth potential in the U.S. with the right content and innovative distribution channels,” added Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1
“We are no strangers to each other, having spent the past three years working together to create F1® The Movie, which has already proven to be a huge hit around the world.
“We have a shared vision to bring this amazing sport to our fans in the U.S. and entice new fans through live broadcasts, engaging content, and a year-round approach to keep them hooked.
“I want to thank Tim Cook, Eddy Cue, and the entire Apple team for their vision, enthusiasm and passionate approach to delivering this partnership, and we are looking forward to the next five years together.“
Fraser Masefield
