Apple has secured exclusive US broadcast rights to Formula One in a five-year deal, marking a significant expansion of its sports portfolio. The agreement, which begins next year, will see all practice, qualifying, sprint sessions and grands prix streamed on Apple TV.
While financial terms were not disclosed, CNBC reported the deal is worth $140m per year, substantially higher than the $90m ESPN paid annually for the rights since 2018. The move follows the global success of Apple's Brad Pitt film 'F1', which has grossed over $628m worldwide and will debut on Apple TV on 12 December.
Apple's senior vice-president of services, Eddy Cue, said: 'We're thrilled to expand our relationship with Formula One and offer Apple TV subscribers in the US front row access to one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports on the planet.' Select races and all practice sessions will also be available free on the Apple TV app.
F1 joins Apple's growing sports lineup, which includes Major League Soccer and Friday Night Baseball. Live sports have become a key battleground in streaming as platforms compete for rights that attract loyal fans and boost ad revenue. According to Nielsen Sports data, F1 added nearly 90 million new fans last year, with China showing the biggest percentage rise.
