Apple Set to Take Over F1 Broadcasting Rights from ESPN in 2026

According to Motorsport.com, Formula 1 fans in the United States may have two streaming options starting 2026 — Apple is preparing to take over main broadcasting rights while Formula One Management will maintain the F1 TV service.

The success of F1 film by Joseph Kosinski and Jerry Bruckheimer starring Brad Pitt and Damson Idris — generating over $293 million in global box office revenue in its first 10 days — has motivated Apple to compete for F1 broadcasting rights.

ESPN’s broadcasting contract will end in 2025, and Apple is the leading candidate with a minimum bid of $150 million per year for exclusive rights. Disney-owned ESPN is not expected to match this offer.

Apple is also working on a documentary film about seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

“Lewis is very inspiring to me,” said Apple CEO Tim Cook. “He came from a working-class family, started with a go-kart and now he’s an F1 driver — that’s an incredible life story.”