The roar of Formula 1 engines is about to get a whole new home in the United States, and it's powered by Apple TV. This isn't just a channel; it's a massive shift in how US fans will experience the pinnacle of motorsport, setting the stage for an electrifying 2026 F1 season and beyond.
Key Takeaways for US F1 Fans:
- Apple TV has secured exclusive US broadcast rights for Formula 1, commencing with the 2026 F1 season for a five-year term.
- Apple TV subscribers gain full, live access to every practice, qualifying, sprint race, and Grand Prix.
- Non-subscribers will still be able to watch practice sessions and a selection of Grand Prix events.
- Full Apple TV access is priced at $12.99 per month or $99 annually.
Redefining the Race Experience: Apple TV's F1 Takeover
The tech giant's new dedicated Formula 1 channel is already live, giving fans a glimpse into the future. This move comes after ESPN's broadcast deal concludes in 2025, handing the reins to Apple TV for a groundbreaking five-year partnership starting in 2026. It's a clear signal of F1's aggressive push into the US market.
What You Get: Full Access vs. Free-to-Air
For the ultimate F1 streaming experience, an Apple TV subscription is your golden ticket. Subscribers, currently at $12.99 per month or $99 annually, unlock every single session: practice, qualifying, sprint races, and every nail-biting Grand Prix live. This comprehensive package ensures you won't miss a moment of the action.
Not ready to commit? Fans without a paid Apple TV subscription aren't entirely left out. They'll still have access to all practice sessions and the opportunity to watch "select races" as they happen, offering a taste of the high-octane drama.
Seamless Access: Finding Your F1 Hub
Apple has made finding your Formula 1 content incredibly easy. The new F1 channel integrates directly into your viewing experience. You'll spot it in the sidebar on your TV, as a quick link in the header of the Apple TV website, and even as a shortcut through the search tab on your iPhone.
Beyond live events, the channel promises a wealth of content. This includes easy access to previous races, schedules for upcoming events, and exclusive additional programming to deepen your F1 knowledge.
Beyond the Track: The New F1 Content Landscape
Even before the full 2026 F1 season kicks off on the platform, Apple TV is already populating the channel with engaging content. Viewers can find dedicated programs for practice sessions, qualifying, and even the Australian Grand Prix. A "Weekend Warm-up" show is also available, preparing fans for race day excitement.
For those who need to catch up, the channel offers accessible race highlights from a number of the 2025 races, ensuring continuity and keeping the buzz alive until the exclusive Apple TV era truly begins.
The Strategic Play: Why Apple and F1 Partnered
The five-year deal, secured in October 2025, signifies a mutual commitment to growth. Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, hailed the partnership as "incredibly exciting." He emphasized the shared vision to maximize F1's growth potential in the US through innovative distribution and engaging content.
This isn't their first collaboration; the success of "F1 The Movie" showcased their synergy. Domenicali expressed gratitude to Apple CEO Tim Cook and Senior Vice President of Services Eddy Cue, highlighting their "vision, enthusiasm and passionate approach" to this landmark deal. For fans, this means a deeper, more integrated F1 experience is on the horizon.
