According to a recent report from The Financial Times, Apple Inc. is reportedly in talks to acquire the U.S. broadcast rights for Formula 1. Apple Inc. could potentially succeed ESPN as the rights holder after its contract concludes following the 2025 season.
The report, citing sources familiar with the situation, indicates that Apple’s interest in Formula 1 aligns with its broader strategy to strengthen its position in live sports broadcasting. The company has already secured partnerships with Major League Baseball and Major League Soccer, and acquiring the rights to Formula 1 could significantly enhance the sports offerings on Apple TV+ as it aims to attract a larger audience and compete with other streaming platforms.
This potential bid follows the successful release of “F1: The Movie,” featuring Brad Pitt. According to Box Office Mojo, the film has earned between US$293 million and US$300 million globally, making it Apple’s highest-grossing film.
Additionally, Apple’s interest is well-timed, as The Financial Times noted that Liberty Media—Formula 1’s U.S.-based owner—is working to grow the sport’s presence in America.
Currently, ESPN holds the exclusive U.S. broadcasting rights for Formula 1 but lost its exclusive renewal window earlier this year, as reported by Reuters in February. This development has opened opportunities for competing bidders, such as Apple and Netflix, who are also reportedly interested in acquiring the rights starting with the 2026 season.
Apple, Liberty Media, and Formula 1 have chosen not to comment on the ongoing discussions.
