F1 TV: A New Era Begins with Apple TV Broadcasting Formula One
Background on Formula One’s Broadcasting Changes
The Australian Grand Prix has featured on the calendar every year since 1996, except for the cancelled events in 2020 and 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This year, the event marks the beginning of a new chapter for Formula One as Apple TV takes over as the primary broadcaster for the 2026 season. With this partnership, fans can expect a fresh approach to how they engage with the sport.
Apple TV’s New Role in Formula One
Formula One racing has a new home on Apple TV for the 2026 season, which is set to revolutionize the viewing experience. Apple TV will livestream every race in 4K with Dolby Vision, providing fans with high-quality visuals. Additionally, subscribers will have access to up to 30 additional live feeds across all sessions, allowing for a more immersive experience.
First Race of the Season
The Australian Grand Prix, taking place from March 6-8, 2026, will be the first race of the season under this new broadcasting arrangement. Eddy Cue, a senior executive at Apple, stated, “This weekend marks the start of a new era for Formula 1 fans in the U.S.” This sentiment reflects the excitement surrounding the enhanced accessibility and quality of the broadcasts.
Features and Benefits for Viewers
F1 TV Pro is included with the Apple TV subscription at no extra cost, further incentivizing fans to engage with the platform. Apple Maps will also provide digital guides to this season’s race tracks and local spots, starting with the Australian Grand Prix. Moreover, live commentaries will be broadcast free on Apple Music, ensuring that fans have multiple ways to connect with the races.
Regulatory Changes and New Teams
The 2026 season marks a new era for Formula 1 with significant regulation changes, which include new teams, cars, engines, and drivers. Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of Formula 1, expressed enthusiasm about this transition, stating, “As we begin this exciting chapter for our sport, it is the perfect time to welcome Apple as our broadcaster in the U.S.” This reflects a broader strategy to modernize and expand the sport’s reach.
Weather Forecast for the Australian Grand Prix
As the Australian Grand Prix approaches, the current weather forecast indicates a dry and warm weekend in Melbourne, with air temperatures expected to reach around 24 degrees Celsius. Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the FIA President, emphasized the importance of safety, noting, “We continue to monitor developments on the ground, and safety and well-being will guide our decisions across forthcoming events.” This highlights the ongoing commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all participants and fans.
Future Streaming Plans
Looking ahead, the Canadian Grand Prix will also stream on Apple TV and Netflix starting May 22, 2026. This expansion of streaming options is part of a broader effort to make Formula One more accessible to fans across various platforms. F1 TV Premium remains available in the U.S. exclusively through Apple TV, ensuring that dedicated fans can continue to enjoy premium content.
As the 2026 season unfolds, the partnership between Formula One and Apple TV is poised to enhance the viewing experience for fans worldwide, setting a new standard for sports broadcasting.
