F1tv: F1.TV: Apple TV to Broadcast Formula 1 in the United States Starting 2026
Reaction from the field
The upcoming 2026 Formula 1 season will see a significant shift in how fans in the United States experience the thrilling world of motorsport. Apple TV has secured an exclusive deal to broadcast all Grand Prix, qualifying, and practice sessions, marking a new chapter for Formula 1 in the US. This change comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance the accessibility of the sport, with Apple TV subscriptions priced at $12.99 per month or $99 annually.
As part of this new agreement, subscribers will also enjoy F1.TV Premium as a complimentary perk, providing an enriched viewing experience that includes exclusive content and behind-the-scenes access. This move is expected to attract a wider audience and deepen the engagement of existing fans, as Formula 1 continues to grow in popularity across the nation.
In a recent incident at the Japanese Grand Prix, the stakes of racing were starkly highlighted when young driver Ollie Bearman experienced a harrowing crash, resulting in a 50G impact. Bearman was promptly taken to the FIA medical centre, where it was confirmed he suffered a right knee contusion but thankfully no fractures. The incident led to the deployment of a safety car, underscoring the inherent risks involved in high-speed motorsport.
Haas F1, Bearman’s team, provided updates on his condition, stating, “Ollie has had an X-ray at the medical centre. No fractures, a right knee contusion following the impact.” This incident has sparked discussions among drivers and teams about safety measures in Formula 1, with Carlos Sainz commenting, “With the accident with Ollie, we’ve been warning them with these closing speeds that this was going to happen.”
Sainz further emphasized the need for attention to safety protocols, stating, “I hope it serves as one example, if they listen to teams and drivers… the racing is clearly not OK.” These remarks reflect a growing concern within the community about the balance between thrilling competition and the safety of drivers on the track.
Before 2026, Formula 1 was broadcast live on ESPN in the US, but the transition to Apple TV represents a significant shift in how fans will engage with the sport. The exclusive streaming deal is expected to provide a more seamless viewing experience, catering to the demands of modern audiences who increasingly prefer digital platforms over traditional cable television.
As the 2026 season approaches, fans are eager to see how this new broadcasting arrangement will unfold and what it means for the future of Formula 1 in the United States. The combination of enhanced accessibility through Apple TV and the ongoing discussions about driver safety will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the upcoming season.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any additional features or content that may accompany the Apple TV launch, but the excitement is palpable as fans prepare for a thrilling new era in Formula 1.
