Reaction from the field
The 2026 Formula 1 season is set to make a significant impact with the return of the Chinese Grand Prix, scheduled for March 15, 2026, at 3 a.m. ET. This event marks a pivotal moment as it not only revives a race that had been absent from the calendar for five years but also introduces a new era of broadcasting for Formula 1 in the United States, with Apple TV taking the reins.
The Chinese Grand Prix rejoined the F1 schedule in 2024, following a hiatus that began in 2019. The race quickly regained popularity, with Oscar Piastri clinching victory in 2025, showcasing the competitive spirit and excitement that the event brings to fans. The upcoming race will also feature a sprint race format, adding another layer of intrigue to the weekend’s activities.
Starting in 2026, Apple TV will become the exclusive U.S. broadcaster for Formula 1, having secured a five-year deal. This partnership includes F1 TV Premium as part of the Apple TV subscription, which costs $12.99 monthly or $99 annually. The integration of F1 TV into Apple TV promises to enhance the viewing experience with various features, including alternate feeds and real-time telemetry.
Apple has committed to providing a rich array of viewing options, including a Driver Tracker that offers a bird’s-eye view of the race, mixed onboard feeds that switch between cameras, and dynamic Podium feeds that follow the top three drivers throughout the race. Such innovations are expected to elevate the fan experience significantly.
The data consumption for a Grand Prix weekend is estimated at 15 GB, with a standard 1080p broadcast consuming about 5 GB over two hours. This level of detail in streaming is indicative of the technological advancements being embraced by Formula 1 and its broadcasting partners.
As the 2026 Chinese Grand Prix approaches, fans are eager to see how these changes will affect their viewing experience. The new offering from Apple embeds a persistent, immersive sidebar during race weekends for connected-TV and streaming subscribers, further enhancing engagement.
While the excitement builds, details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional features or changes that may be introduced as the season progresses. The combination of a returning race and new broadcasting strategies positions the 2026 season as a landmark year for Formula 1 in the U.S.
