Apple's Game-Changing Move: Formula 1's New Era of Streaming Dominance!
In a groundbreaking partnership that could reshape the landscape of motorsports broadcasting, Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has thrown his full support behind Apple as the tech giant prepares to take the reins of F1's broadcasting rights in the United States. This monumental collaboration, commencing this year, promises to revolutionize how fans experience F1 and propel its viewership to unprecedented heights.
The announcement, made back in October 2025, revealed that Apple would become the exclusive US broadcaster for Formula 1, signing a lucrative five-year deal reportedly worth a staggering $140 million annually. This shift marks the end of F1's relationship with ESPN, a partnership that had been steadily building since 2018 but has not reached the explosive potential that Domenicali believes Apple can unlock.
ESPN wrapped up 2025 with an impressive average viewership of around 1.3 million fans tuning in per race, but Apple is poised to shoot for the stars. With race weekends now available for streaming via Apple TV, the company has hinted at a comprehensive experience that will engage fans throughout the entire week. This innovative approach includes a partnership with IMAX, ensuring that five thrilling races will be screened in select theaters, bringing F1 action to the big screen.
Domenicali articulated the immense possibilities that Apple brings to the table, stating, “When we are talking about Apple in the US, we are talking about a new partner of Formula 1 that believes in us with a great plan of being the protagonist of the growth in the US of the sport through their channels.” He emphasized the importance of connectivity, asserting that Apple's reach allows F1 to penetrate homes in a way that was not previously achieved.
He continued, “Apple is in the hands of the majority of people because it allows everyone to be connected. We want to be connected and relevant, and that's where we believe we took the right decision to go in this direction.” The confidence in Apple's commitment is palpable, as Domenicali hints at a more hands-on approach than ESPN could provide.
While Domenicali expressed gratitude for ESPN's initial belief in F1, he made it clear that the future lies with Apple. “I need to thank them, and as you know, with Disney World, the collaboration is huge in the area of licensing and other things that we are doing together,” he noted, acknowledging ESPN's foundational role. Yet, he remains optimistic about the growth potential with Apple, stating, “The reach that we're going to have through the streaming platform will be even bigger in the future.”
With a strong foothold finally established in the US market, thanks to significant investments and marketing efforts, F1 is ready to amplify its presence. The hit series *Drive to Survive* is entering its eighth season, and events like the Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas Grands Prix are showcasing robust attendance and viewership.
Domenicali asserted, “We do believe that the partner that we have chosen in the world of streaming is the right one,” highlighting the maturity of the American streaming market compared to others. He emphasized Apple's drive to leverage its extensive technology suite to engage fans like never before, noting that F1 TV subscribers will benefit from seamless integration with Apple TV, ultimately offering more content at a lower cost.
In a bid to capture a younger audience—40% of which is female—Domenicali is confident that Apple will push F1 into a new dimension of accessibility and engagement. The scale and ambition of this partnership signify a seismic shift for Formula 1, as it positions itself to cement its status in one of the largest markets in the world.
This dynamic alliance between Apple and Formula 1 is set to make waves, and fans can expect a thrilling new era of motorsport entertainment that will leave traditional broadcasting in the dust! Don’t blink, because the future of F1 is about to accelerate at breakneck speed!








