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Apple’s Shocking F1 Takeover: What ESPN’s Exit Means for America’s Racing Revolution!

Miguel Cunha by Miguel Cunha
October 17, 2025
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 3 mins read
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Apple’s Shocking F1 Takeover: What ESPN’s Exit Means for America’s Racing Revolution!
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Apple’s Bold Move: Formula 1 Exclusively Streaming in the U.S. by 2026!

In a seismic shift that is sending shockwaves through the sports broadcasting industry, Apple has clinched exclusive streaming rights for Formula 1 in the United States starting in 2026. This groundbreaking five-year deal, which ousts ESPN after a seven-year partnership, marks a new era for F1 in America, as the tech giant outbid its competitors with a staggering $140 million annual contract.

ESPN, which initially secured broadcasting rights in 2018 for a mere song following Liberty Media’s acquisition of the racing series, has seen its fortunes soar. The network transformed its initial investment—valued at zero—into a lucrative deal worth approximately $90 million a year. The result? Viewership skyrocketed from a modest 1.3 million viewers in 2018 to double that figure today. It’s a classic example of how strategic foresight and timely investments can yield tremendous results.

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F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali expressed heartfelt gratitude for ESPN’s role in this meteoric rise, stating, “I think without their voice we wouldn’t be irrelevant, as we are today. They were instrumental for our growth.” His acknowledgments highlight the pivotal role ESPN played in fostering F1’s popularity in the U.S. market, where it was once overshadowed by other sports.

But let’s not kid ourselves—ESPN was merely riding the wave of F1’s newfound appeal. Since Liberty Media took over, F1 has undergone a radical transformation, shifting its focus from European audiences to a more digitally-savvy American demographic. The strategy paid off handsomely as F1’s social media following exploded from 18.7 million to a staggering 107.6 million in just five years, thanks to a savvy approach that included influencer collaborations and celebrity endorsements.

Moreover, the Netflix phenomenon “Drive to Survive” has been a game changer, giving fans unprecedented behind-the-scenes access to their favorite teams and drivers. Despite some criticism for its dramatization, the series has played a critical role in cultivating a new generation of American F1 fans who are now eagerly consuming every ounce of content the sport has to offer.

As Apple prepares to step into this lucrative arena, they inherit an audience that is primed for growth. The U.S. boasts the highest disposable income per capita at $62,772, and F1 fans are among the wealthiest, with many earning between $50,000 and $100,000 annually. This financial clout makes the American market a perfect fit for F1’s luxury partners, such as LVMH, and for Apple’s premium offerings.

With the transition to Apple looming, the tech behemoth is set to elevate the broadcasting experience to new heights. Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of services, hinted at the exciting potential, stating, “I think some of the things that we do together will make all of the broadcasts around the world… I think everyone benefits from that.”

As we stand on the brink of this new chapter, one thing is clear: the future of Formula 1 in the United States is brighter than ever. The combination of Apple’s technological prowess and the groundwork laid by ESPN and Liberty Media promises an exhilarating ride for fans. Buckle up, because the race is just beginning!

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