Apple is reportedly in discussions to acquire the streaming rights for Formula 1 in the United States, according to the Financial Times. This move marks the tech giant’s continued push into live sports, following its existing agreements for Major League Baseball and Major League Soccer.
ESPN’s current contract for airing F1 races is set to expire next year, creating an opportunity for Apple. However, the company will face competition not only from ESPN but potentially other bidders as well.
This development coincides with Apple’s recent success in the film industry, having launched its first major theatrical release—a movie centered on Formula 1 produced by racing superstar Lewis Hamilton. Overall, interest in Formula 1 content is on the rise, particularly since Netflix’s “Drive to Survive” helped popularize the sport in the U.S. since its debut in 2019. Viewership of live F1 races has notably surged, especially among younger female audiences.
Apple TV has yet to provide a statement regarding these developments.
