Apple is positioning itself as a serious contender in the sports streaming arena with a bold move to acquire the U.S. streaming rights for Formula 1. According to Business Insider, the tech giant has submitted a bid worth at least $150 million annually, potentially securing the exclusive rights beginning in 2026. The rights are currently held by ESPN, owned by Disney, which reportedly has no intention of matching Apple’s offer.
The bid—nearly double ESPN’s current $85 million annual spend—underscores Apple’s growing commitment to live sports content. This latest move comes on the heels of its successful original F1-themed film, further cementing the company’s interest in motorsports and its broader strategy to bolster its Apple TV+ streaming platform.
If finalized, the Formula 1 deal would mark Apple’s third significant sports partnership, following its deals with Major League Soccer and Friday Night Baseball. While the company has notably stayed away from bidding on the NFL, this F1 play reflects Apple’s calculated focus on sports with global appeal and room for audience growth.
Formula 1 has experienced a remarkable surge in U.S. popularity over the past few years, driven largely by Netflix’s docuseries Drive to Survive. Since its debut in 2019, the show has broadened the sport’s fan base, particularly among younger demographics. ESPN reports that average viewership has more than doubled since 2018, with races now drawing approximately 1.3 million U.S. viewers.
Despite the heightened interest in live sports rights, many expected contenders have remained on the sidelines. Netflix, which considered a bid in 2022, was notably absent from the current round of negotiations. Other potential players also appeared hesitant amid escalating streaming rights costs.
Apple’s assertive bid signals not only its confidence in Formula 1’s continued U.S. expansion but also its strategic intent to distinguish Apple TV+ as a destination for premium live content. Should the deal go through, it would further reshape the competitive landscape of sports media in the streaming era.
Recent Random Post:
