Formula 1 has confirmed a new five-year deal with Apple, which will become the sport’s exclusive broadcast partner in the United States from 2026. The agreement will replace ESPN, which has held the rights since 2018.

The deal brings together two major global brands and is seen as a key step in expanding F1’s reach in the U.S. market. The value of the contract has not been officially disclosed, but British media report that it could be worth around 150 million dollars per year.

The announcement follows the success of F1: The Movie, an Apple Original Film released in cinemas and IMAX theatres in June 2025. The film, made in close cooperation with Formula 1 teams and the sport’s organisers, will start streaming on Apple TV+ on December 12, 2025.

The movie has earned more than 630 million dollars worldwide, making it the most successful sports film ever. Its popularity has shown Apple’s strong ability to attract new fans through its global platform.

According to the 2025 Global F1 Fan Survey, 47% of new U.S. F1 fans have been following the sport for five years or less and are aged between 18 and 24. More than half of them are women, highlighting the opportunity for Formula 1 and Apple to grow a younger and more diverse fan base in the years ahead.