Apple is gradually expanding its streaming business. After initial successes with live sports and its own film productions, the company appears ready for its next big deal. Target: Formula 1. The motorsport series has been growing rapidly in the US for years. Apple is responding to this trend and plans to secure the streaming rights to broadcast the races.
Apple's entry into live sports began in 2022 with Major League Baseball and Major League Soccer. Now, Formula 1 is coming into focus. Apple's interest comes as no surprise: The company's first Formula 1 film has already grossed over $300 million worldwide. According to the Financial Times, talks are underway for the broadcast rights in the US. This puts Apple directly in contention with Disney, which currently holds the rights through ESPN.
Apple negotiates with Formula 1
Disney currently pays around $85 million per year via ESPN for the Formula 1 rights in the US. Until now, Disney was able to negotiate a contract extension without competition. This exclusivity has now ended. Other providers can now also bid. Apple is therefore one of the first serious competitors. The owners of Formula 1, the US company Liberty Media, are counting on significantly higher revenues in the next contract. This is based on increased reach and media presence. Series such as "Drive to Survive" on Netflix and now the Apple film "F1: The Movie" have significantly increased the market value of Formula 1. Liberty Media expects that the next US streaming deal could be worth more than $121 million per year.
Formula 1 is growing strongly in the USA
In recent years, Formula 1 viewership in the US has increased significantly. In 2024, the average was around 1.1 million viewers per race—double the number just a few years ago. In the first ten races of 2025, the numbers climbed further to around 1.3 million per race. This trend makes Formula 1 particularly attractive for streaming providers. Apple could broadcast the races on Apple TV+, thus not only gaining new subscribers but also positioning itself in the live sports sector for the long term.
The success of “F1: The Movie” as a possible door opener
"F1: The Movie" was Apple's first major box office success. The film, centered around Formula 1 racing, has already grossed over $300 million worldwide. Release on Apple TV+ is scheduled for late 2025. The production was financed and distributed worldwide by Apple. This success is likely to strengthen Apple's position in the current negotiations with Formula 1.
Apple on course for expansion in sports streaming
Apple has gained experience in live sports over the past few years by broadcasting MLB and MLS games. Integrating Formula 1 would be a logical next step. The racing series offers regular events, high ratings, and international reach—an attractive package for streaming providers seeking long-term growth.
Formula 1 deal could strengthen Apple's streaming offering
Apple is working specifically to expand its streaming offerings. Negotiations for the Formula 1 rights demonstrate that the company is ready to compete in the highly competitive sports segment. The growing success of Formula 1 in the US, rising viewership, and its own box office hit "F1: The Movie" could tip the scales. Whether Apple will actually win the deal remains to be seen – but the signs are good that the premier class of motorsport will soon be available on Apple TV+. (Image: Apple)
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