In a significant shift for motorsport fans in the United States, Apple TV has replaced ESPN as the exclusive broadcaster for Formula 1, starting with the 2026 season. This transition marks a new era for F1 coverage, as Apple TV will provide comprehensive access to all Grand Prix, qualifying, and practice sessions, available for a monthly subscription of $12.99 or an annual fee of $99.
As the 2026 Formula 1 season unfolds, the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit is set to be the third race, scheduled for March 29, 2026, at 1 a.m. ET. This race will be pivotal, not only for the teams and drivers but also for Apple TV as it showcases its new F1 programming.
The deal with Apple TV, which extends through 2032, includes F1.TV Premium at no additional cost for subscribers, enhancing the viewing experience for fans. “Apple TV is the new streaming home of Formula 1 racing, and you can catch all practices and qualifying races there,” a representative stated, highlighting the platform’s commitment to delivering high-quality motorsport content.
However, the excitement surrounding the Japanese Grand Prix was tempered by a 10-minute delay at the start of the race due to an accident involving a Porsche Cup participant. “The start of the Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix was delayed due to an accident,” officials confirmed, reminding fans of the unpredictable nature of motorsport.
As the racing community anticipates the upcoming events, including the next race on May 3 in Miami, Apple TV’s exclusive rights are expected to reshape how fans engage with Formula 1. The platform also allows for Family Sharing, enabling up to six people to share a subscription, making it more accessible for families and friends to enjoy the races together.
With this strategic move, Apple TV aims to capture a significant share of the sports streaming market, competing directly with established networks. Observers are keen to see how this will impact viewership numbers and fan engagement in the coming years.
As the 2026 season progresses, the implications of this broadcasting shift will become clearer, particularly in how it affects the relationship between fans and the sport. The integration of F1 content into Apple TV’s ecosystem could potentially attract a new audience, further expanding the reach of Formula 1.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the full extent of features and content that will be available on the platform, but the initial offerings suggest a promising future for F1 enthusiasts.
Fans are encouraged to check for updates within the Apple TV app to ensure they have access to the new Formula 1 hub. “If you can’t see the Formula 1 hub inside the Apple TV app, check for app updates and check if your operating system is up to date,” the company advised.
