Source:REUTERS/Amr Alfiky
[Saba Sports News] Apple has announced a five-year exclusive broadcasting agreement for the U.S. market with the Formula 1 World Championship. Starting in 2026, all F1 events, including practice sessions, qualifying races, sprint races, and the main Grand Prix, will be exclusively broadcast on Apple TV. These events will be available to subscribers who pay $12.99 per month for Apple TV, with practice sessions and some races offered for free. Additionally, Apple is launching “F1 TV Premium” for users focused solely on F1 events and will promote the sport through its other platforms: for example, Apple Sports will provide real-time updates on events and send notifications to a dedicated widget on the iPhone home screen.
F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali stated that this partnership will ensure F1 can continue to maximize its growth potential in the U.S. through the right content and innovative distribution channels. According to data disclosed by CNBC, Apple is paying approximately $140 million per year for the broadcasting rights. Previously, F1’s broadcasting in the U.S. was handled by Disney-owned ESPN at around $85 million annually.
In my view, the announcement of the Cadillac team from the U.S. joining F1 in the 2026 season is expected to further enhance F1’s influence in the American market. Against this backdrop, it is not surprising that Apple swiftly secured exclusive broadcasting rights in the U.S. for the next five years.