Apple has announced a significant surge in دليل Formula 1 viewership in the United States after the first three races of the 2026 season, following its exclusive broadcast rights deal worth $150 million annually. The numbers reportedly exceed those of previous broadcaster ESPN.
Apple has announced a significant surge in Formula 1 viewership in the United States after the first three races of the 2026 season, following its exclusive broadcast rights deal worth $150 million annually. The numbers reportedly exceed those of previous broadcaster ESPN.
What are the key viewership figures?
Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president, revealed at the Autosport Business Exchange Miami conference that viewership is “much higher” compared to the same period last year when ESPN held the rights. While exact numbers were not disclosed, Cue described the increase as “significant” and noted that audiences are now engaging with content throughout the race weekend, not just the main Sunday race.
- Overall viewership up compared to the 2025 ESPN season.
- Increased following of qualifying sessions and sprint races.
- Strong uptake of exclusive behind-the-scenes content produced by Apple.
How does the Apple viewing experience differ?
Apple streams all F1 events exclusively on Apple TV+, offering multi-angle coverage with no commercial breaks, plus exclusive analysis programs. This contrasts sharply with ESPN’s traditional broadcast, which relied on fixed advertising schedules and less comprehensive coverage.
How much is the Apple-F1 deal worth?
The exclusive deal between Apple and Formula 1 is valued at approximately $150 million USD per year, making it one of the most expensive sports broadcasting rights in the United States. The agreement spans multiple seasons, reflecting Apple’s long-term commitment to motorsport.
What does this mean for the future of sports broadcasting?
This early success demonstrates that major digital streaming platforms can attract new audiences to traditional sports by offering an enhanced viewing experience and exclusive content. It also strengthens Apple’s position as a key player in live sports streaming, potentially encouraging other leagues to consider similar partnerships.
Is there an impact on Gulf audiences?
For viewers in the Middle East, broadcast rights remain with channels like beIN Sports and MBC Action. However, the US success may encourage Apple to expand its streaming to the region in the future, especially given the growing popularity of F1 in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The Gulf’s hot climate and enthusiasm for motorsport make it a natural market for premium F1 coverage.
FAQ
Will Apple TV+ be available for F1 viewing in Saudi Arabia?
Currently, exclusive F1 broadcast rights in the Middle East are held by beIN Sports and MBC Action. Apple has no official plans to expand its streaming to the region, but the success of the US model could lead to future changes.
How much does an Apple TV+ subscription cost for F1?
An Apple TV+ subscription costs $9.99 per month in the US, but it does not automatically include F1 streaming. The F1 broadcast requires an additional subscription or a special package, which has not yet been announced separately.
Does F1 viewership on Apple surpass ESPN?
According to Apple, yes. Eddy Cue confirmed that viewership is “much higher” compared to the same period of the 2025 season on ESPN, indicating the success of the exclusive content strategy and comprehensive coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Apple TV+ be available for F1 viewing in Saudi Arabia?
Currently, exclusive F1 broadcast rights in the Middle East are held by beIN Sports and MBC Action. Apple has no official plans to expand its streaming to the region, but the success of the US model could lead to future changes.
How much does an Apple TV+ subscription cost for F1?
An Apple TV+ subscription costs $9.99 per month in the US, but it does not automatically include F1 streaming. The F1 broadcast requires an additional subscription or a special package, which has not yet been announced separately.
Does F1 viewership on Apple surpass ESPN?
According to Apple, yes. Eddy Cue confirmed that viewership is "much higher" compared to the same period of the 2025 season on ESPN, indicating the success of the exclusive content strategy and comprehensive coverage.
Sources
- Autosport — Apple reveals early F1 2026 viewership surge after US broadcast rights deal
- Motorsport.com — Apple reveals early F1 2026 viewership surge after US broadcast rights deal
