Full Breakdown
Apple Eyes Global Growth of Formula One Through Sequel Film and U.S. Broadcast Rights
5/2/2026, 10:07:28 AM
Apple’s F1 Expansion Plans
Apple TV+ has become the exclusive U.S. broadcaster of the 2024 Formula One season, covering all 24 Grand Prix events. At the Miami Grand Prix, senior vice-president of services Eddy Cue indicated that the company intends to leverage the broadcast deal to broaden Formula One’s reach beyond the United States, and he signaled that a sequel to Apple’s 2023 F1 feature film starring Brad Pitt is “likely.”
Background & Context
Apple entered the sport’s media landscape by acquiring the U.S. rights from Walt Disney’s ESPN this season. The move follows the release of the Apple Original Films production “F1,” which cost an estimated $200 million to produce and earned $634 million worldwide, according to IMDb. The film’s commercial success provides a platform for Apple to deepen its involvement in motorsports content.
Key Figures & Groups
- Eddy Cue – Senior Vice-President of Services, Apple, the primary spokesperson on the F1 strategy.
- John Ternus – Newly appointed Apple CEO, succeeding Tim Cook, described by Cue as an avid F1 enthusiast.
- Brad Pitt – Lead actor in the original F1 film, whose performance contributed to the movie’s box-office returns.
- Formula One Management (FOM) – Governing body that granted Apple the exclusive U.S. broadcast rights.
Data & Statistics
Official Statements & Responses
Cue told Reuters that Apple is “thrilled” with the reception of its F1 coverage and that the company “doesn’t do things halfway,” emphasizing a full-scale commitment to the sport. He noted that the U.S. market serves as a launchpad for broader expansion, stating that Apple aims to “grow into other areas and markets” after establishing a strong domestic foothold. Cue also linked the upcoming leadership change to the sport, saying the appointment of John Ternus as CEO will “strengthen the company’s relationship with Formula One” because of Ternus’s personal interest in racing.
Criticism & Opposition
No dissenting viewpoints or critical commentary were presented in the available source material.
Why It Matters / Impact
Apple’s acquisition of exclusive U.S. rights and its intent to produce a sequel signal a strategic push into premium sports streaming, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape that includes ESPN/Disney. By seeking global licensing opportunities, Apple could influence Formula One’s market penetration, sponsorship structures, and fan engagement worldwide.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I hope and expect there will be one,” — Eddy Cue, Senior Vice-President of Services, Apple
- “The sport doesn't get licensed on a global basis,” — Eddy Cue
- “Do I hope that we are able to grow into other areas and markets? Yeah, I do.” — Eddy Cue
- “When we do something, we don't do things halfway.” — Eddy Cue
- “He would actually be here this weekend but he's at Laguna Seca.” — Eddy Cue (referring to John Ternus)
- “He's a huge, huge fan of F1 and he's known about this, he's a huge supporter.” — Eddy Cue
What’s Next
Apple is expected to green-light development of the F1 sequel later this year, while simultaneously exploring licensing agreements that could extend Formula One coverage to additional international markets. The company’s next steps will likely be announced alongside the upcoming races in the 2024 season.
