Apple is close to an agreement with Formula 1

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Apple is poised to enter the world of Formula 1. The technology giant is said to have prepared a comprehensive streaming deal with the racing series, which could be officially announced at the US Grand Prix in Austin from October 17 to 19. According to industry sources, negotiations between Apple and Formula 1 are almost complete. This would further expand Apple's sports offering on Apple TV and secure another major rights package.

It's been known for some time that Apple is increasingly investing in the sports sector. With the MLS Season Pass and MLB Friday Night Baseball, the company already offers two exclusive streaming packages. Now Formula 1 could follow suit. This move would finally make Apple a serious player in the sports streaming business – in direct competition with ESPN, Amazon, and other established platforms. Formula 1 is considered one of the most valuable rights packages in international sports. Apple's entry would be not only a technical but also a strategic milestone for the company.

Negotiations close to completion

According to journalist John Ourand of Puck magazine, Apple and Formula 1 are close to signing a contract. The agreement is expected to be announced at the Grand Prix in Austin. An annual fee of approximately $150 million is being discussed, which Apple would pay for the streaming rights in the US. A central point of the negotiations was the existing streaming service F1.TV, which Formula 1 itself operates. Apple reportedly insisted on exclusive streaming rights – a condition that could lead to the closure of F1.TV in the US.

Uncertainty about the future of F1.TV in the USA

This is precisely what made the talks so protracted. F1.TV is profitable for Formula 1 and particularly popular with the most dedicated fans. The service offers extensive live content, data, and exclusive camera angles. According to insiders, the cannibalization was minimal compared to the number of viewers who previously tuned in via ESPN. Nevertheless, Apple apparently insisted on a clear separation to avoid overlaps. It is still unclear how the parties resolved this issue. It is possible that F1.TV will disappear in the US or be integrated into the Apple platform. In other markets, F1.TV is already unavailable due to local rights holders – this could serve as a model.

Background and consequences

ESPN currently holds the US broadcast rights for Formula 1, but this contract expires at the end of the 2025 season. After that, Apple would take over the rights and likely offer Formula 1 as an add-on via the Apple TV app. This would be the next logical step for Apple. With three major sports packages – MLS, MLB, and F1 – the company could further consolidate its position in the streaming market. The company is focusing on exclusive content, seamless integration across devices, and a consistent user experience. For Formula 1, the deal opens up access to an even broader audience in the US. The market for the racing series has grown significantly in recent years, not least due to the Netflix documentary Drive to Survive. Apple could further reinforce this trend with a professional and globally available streaming service.

Symbolic place for the announcement

The fact that the official announcement will take place at the Grand Prix in Austin also has symbolic significance. It was precisely there that Apple CEO Tim Cook waved the checkered flag around three years ago – a moment that was considered a PR gesture at the time, but in retrospect can be interpreted as a sign of the upcoming partnership. Austin is considered one of the most important Formula 1 weekends in the US and a stage for major brand launches. Such a location would be ideal for Apple to present the new partnership and launch the project with high publicity.

Apple strengthens its role as a premium provider in the sports sector

If the deal goes through as expected, Apple will officially take over Formula 1 broadcasts in the US starting in 2026. This marks the end of a successful era for ESPN, while Apple opens up another segment of its streaming business. The planned collaboration demonstrates how consistently Apple is expanding its streaming service and positioning itself as a premium provider. At the same time, it underscores Formula 1's increasing reliance on large technology companies to reach new audiences and expand its media presence. Whether F1.TV will truly disappear in the US or remain as a complementary offering remains to be seen. Official confirmation of the deal is expected in the coming weeks – likely at the Austin Grand Prix. This would not only secure Apple another exclusive sports right but also open the next chapter of its streaming strategy: global content, technological control, and a clear focus on premium experiences. (Image: Shutterstock / Supamotionstock.com)