While Formula 1 fans in the United States brace for a significant broadcast shift, their passionate counterparts across Latin America and the Caribbean can celebrate a huge win: ESPN has secured exclusive rights to broadcast the pinnacle of motorsport until the end of the 2028 season! This landmark deal ensures unparalleled access to every thrilling moment for millions of dedicated viewers.
KEY POINTS FOR F1 FANS IN LATIN AMERICA:
- ESPN will continue as the exclusive Formula 1 broadcaster across 18 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean.
- The agreement guarantees full live coverage through the 2028 F1 season.
- Every practice, qualifying session, sprint race, and Grand Prix will be broadcast.
- Comprehensive coverage also includes support series like Formula 2, Formula 3, F1 Academy, and Porsche Super Cup.
The Green Flag Waved for Latin America's F1 Faithful
This renewed partnership extends ESPN's long-standing commitment to Formula 1 in a region where the sport's popularity is soaring. Fans in key markets like Mexico and Brazil can rest easy knowing their access to high-octane racing is secure for years to come. The deal covers an extensive 18 countries, solidifying F1's presence.
Crucially, this agreement guarantees complete coverage. From the initial practice sessions that set the tone for the weekend, through the tension of qualifying, the excitement of sprint races, and the drama of every Grand Prix, ESPN will deliver it all live. Adding to the value, viewers will also catch the rising stars in Formula 2, Formula 3, the groundbreaking F1 Academy, and the high-speed action of the Porsche Super Cup.
F1's Chief Media Rights and Broadcasting Officer, Ian Holmes, underscored the importance of the continuity. "ESPN has been a trusted broadcast partner for many years, so we are excited to continue our collaboration," Holmes stated, emphasizing the sport's incredible growth in Latin America and the Caribbean. This growth is a testament to the dedication of both F1 and ESPN teams.
Driving Growth: Why This Deal is a Game Changer
The extension highlights Formula 1's strategic focus on expanding its global footprint. Latin America, with its rich motorsport history and passionate fan base, represents a crucial growth market. Securing a long-term, comprehensive broadcast partner like ESPN is vital for nurturing this audience and attracting new generations of fans.
Michael Walters, ESPN's Vice President of Programming and Acquisitions, echoed this sentiment, calling the extension a reinforcement of ESPN's commitment to "excellence in sports content." He added that "comprehensive, multiplatform coverage" will continue to bring the "highest level of international motorsport" to the region's enthusiastic audiences. This mutual commitment ensures high-quality broadcasting.
Looking ahead, the deal sets the stage for exciting future developments. Ian Holmes specifically noted the 2026 season and its new generation of regulations, which are expected to "shake up the competition and create huge excitement and drama." Fans can anticipate witnessing these transformative changes with unwavering coverage.
A Different Paddock for US Fans
In a sharp contrast to the stability in Latin America, the broadcast landscape for F1 in the United States is undergoing a significant overhaul. ESPN's US deal concludes after the 2025 season, with Apple TV+ reportedly stepping in as the exclusive broadcaster. This divergence underscores distinct regional strategies for Formula 1's media rights.
While US fans prepare for a new streaming experience, Latin American viewers can enjoy the familiar, trusted platform of ESPN. This stability is a key win, especially as the sport continues to attract record viewership and global interest. It speaks volumes about the strength of the ESPN-F1 partnership in the region.
What's Next on the F1 Calendar?
With the broadcast future secured, anticipation builds for upcoming seasons. The 2026 F1 season, expected to bring significant technical changes, is scheduled to kick off with the iconic Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park in Melbourne from March 6-8. Fans across Latin America and the Caribbean can mark their calendars, assured of their front-row seat to every moment of the action on ESPN.
