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Apple has been active in sports streaming for some time. With exclusive broadcasts of baseball and soccer games, the company has gradually moved into live sports. Now, the next big step is apparently imminent: a streaming deal with Formula 1. The agreement would be another milestone for Apple TV+ and would significantly strengthen its position in the US market.
According to reports from the Financial Times and Business Insider, Apple is close to securing the US streaming rights to Formula 1. The deal is said to be worth over $150 million annually. This would not only replace ESPN as the current rights holder, but also take Apple's sports strategy to a new level. Starting in 2026, F1 races in the US could be available exclusively on Apple TV+ – a move that would have far-reaching consequences for both Apple and Formula 1.
Apple offers at least $150 million per year
Negotiations have been ongoing for some time. According to Business Insider, the deal is close to completion – only a last-minute change could still halt it. Apple is said to have made an offer of at least $150 million per year, possibly as much as $200 million. That's more than double the amount ESPN is currently paying. ESPN's contract expires at the end of the current F1 season, clearing the way for Apple. According to insiders, ESPN will not attempt to outbid Apple's offer. This means that everything looks set to lead to Apple taking over exclusive US rights to Formula 1 starting with the 2026 season.
Third major sports deal for Apple
If the deal goes through, Formula 1 would be the third major sports package in Apple's portfolio. Apple TV+ already broadcasts exclusive MLB games weekly as part of "Friday Night Baseball." Furthermore, Apple has held the worldwide rights to all Major League Soccer (MLS) games since 2023. The so-called MLS Season Pass is a dedicated streaming offering within Apple TV+. Formula 1 would fit perfectly into this strategy, especially since Apple released the feature film "F1: The Movie" last month. The combination of Hollywood production and live sports broadcast creates strong synergies between brand, content, and platform.
What happens to F1 TV?
It's still unclear exactly how Apple will offer Formula 1 starting in 2026. A separate subscription model, similar to the MLS Season Pass, is likely. What will happen to F1 TV—Formula 1's current direct offering for viewers in the US—is also unclear. If Apple does indeed receive exclusive rights, it could mean that F1 TV will be discontinued or restricted in the US. These questions have not yet been officially answered. What is clear is that Apple wants to further expand its position in sports streaming—with long-term deals, clear structures, and exclusive access.
Formula 1 as the next building block in Apple's sports portfolio
The deal between Apple and Formula 1 isn't final yet, but it's almost done. For Apple, it would be another step toward a comprehensive sports offering on Apple TV+. With an annual investment of at least $150 million, the company is clearly signaling its intention to take a leading role in the streaming market – including live sports. For fans, this may mean a platform switch, but for Apple itself, it primarily means more control over content, greater reach, and a stronger market position in the digital sports sector. (Image: Shutterstock / Jay Hirano)
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