Full Breakdown
Apple and Netflix Collaborate to Expand Formula 1 Coverage in the U.S.
2/27/2026, 8:10:23 AM
Exclusive Broadcasting Rights Transition to Apple TV
The 2026 Formula 1 season marks a significant shift in broadcasting rights in the United States, as Apple TV has secured exclusive rights to stream all races, practice sessions, and qualifying events. This transition follows a five-year deal reportedly valued between $120 million and $150 million annually, taking over from ESPN, which had previously held the rights since 2018. The season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix on March 7, 2026.
Partnership with Netflix
In a notable collaboration, Apple and Netflix have announced a partnership to share Formula 1 content. For the first time, the eighth season of the popular docuseries "Drive to Survive" will be available on both platforms simultaneously, launching on February 27, 2026. This season covers the 2025 FIA Formula One World Championship, highlighting key moments such as Lando Norris's championship win and significant team changes.
As part of this agreement, Netflix will also stream the Canadian Grand Prix live to U.S. audiences from May 22-24, 2026. This arrangement allows fans who have followed the series to experience live racing without needing a separate subscription to Apple TV.
Enhanced Viewing Experience on Apple TV
Apple TV is set to enhance the viewing experience for Formula 1 fans with features such as a dedicated F1 tab, multi-view options, and real-time updates. Subscribers will have access to all 24 races of the season, including practice and qualifying sessions, with no additional fees. Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, “Netflix has played a pivotal role in growing F1 since the launch of 'Drive to Survive,' and we’re thrilled to make F1 content more broadly available to new and existing U.S. fans on both Netflix and Apple TV.”
Broader Implications for Formula 1
This collaboration reflects a broader trend in sports media, where streaming services are increasingly partnering to maximize audience reach. Formula 1’s Chief Media Rights and Broadcast Officer, Ian Holmes, noted that the sport's audience is becoming younger and more diverse, particularly in the U.S. market. The partnership with Apple is seen as a strategic move to leverage Apple’s extensive ecosystem to further engage fans.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite the excitement surrounding this partnership, there are concerns regarding the potential limitations of Apple TV's audience reach compared to traditional broadcasters. Reports indicate that Apple TV accounts for less than 0.5% of total television viewing in the U.S., raising questions about whether the platform can effectively capitalize on the growing interest in Formula 1.
What's Next
As the 2026 season unfolds, fans can anticipate a comprehensive F1 experience across both Apple TV and Netflix. The collaboration aims to convert the documentary audience into live viewers, potentially expanding Formula 1's footprint in the U.S. market. The first race of the season, the Australian Grand Prix, will be available to Apple TV subscribers, while Netflix will provide access to the Canadian Grand Prix, marking a new era for Formula 1 broadcasting in America.
