Apple’s $750 Million Deal Wins Exclusive F1 Coverage Rights,…

Apple has inked a five-year deal worth around $750 million to exclusively stream Formula 1 in the United States starting from the 2026 season. This agreement signifies Apple’s largest venture into live sports to date. ESPN currently holds the broadcasting rights, but this will fully transfer to Apple as part of the new arrangement.

Apple TV users in America will have access to every race, including all qualifying and practice sessions, without any additional charges.

Stefano Domenicali, the Chairman of Formula 1, views this deal as a significant milestone for the sport that will accelerate Formula 1’s expansion in the US. He further stated that Apple will publicize the sport across various major platforms, including Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Sports, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+.

Domenicali also suggested that this deal’s success in the US might pave the way for exploring similar agreements in other countries. He expressed optimism about Formula 1’s growth in the US, citing the popularity of American races in Miami, Las Vegas, and Austin.

Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of services, stated that this partnership was not just a five-year plan, hinting at a longer-term investment in Formula 1. Cue acknowledged the rapidly growing popularity of the sport in America, underscoring the untapped potential for further expansion.

One of the decisive factors contributing to this deal’s fruition was the commercial success of Apple-produced Formula 1 movie starring Brad Pitt. This film grossed approximately $630 million in global box office returns, marking it as the highest-earning sports film of all time.

This deal also displaces ESPN’s current contract estimated to be worth around $80 million annually, a sum significantly lesser than Apple’s investment. Additionally, unlike the extra charges for the Major League Soccer service, the access to Formula 1 content will be included in the standard Apple TV subscription at no extra cost.