In 2026, Apple scored six Academy nominations in total, including Best Picture for its acclaimed Apple Original Film F1, notably the highest-grossing sports feature of all time.
Seems they weren’t satiated enough, as now Apple is preparing to completely transform how Formula 1 is presented to fans in the United States, promising to leverage its vast technological ecosystem to deliver an elevated, fan-centric viewing experience.
Apple Aims To Integrate F1 Into the US’s Sports Landscape
As the sport’s new host broadcaster from the 2026 season onward, Apple is pledging to “bring everything Apple has to bear” to bolster the telecast, and the plans go far beyond simply streaming races on Apple TV.
The partnership, first announced in October 2025, marks a significant shift in F1 media rights in the U.S., with Apple replacing ESPN as the exclusive rights holder under a five-year agreement. Apple TV will stream every session, including practice, qualifying, Sprint races, and Grands Prix, placing Formula 1 squarely within the company’s growing sports portfolio.
At the heart of Apple’s strategy is a focus on enhancing quality and choice for viewers. Senior Vice President of Services Eddy Cue told Racer that Apple will use all of its “touch points”, ranging from Apple News and Apple Music to retail stores and popular apps, to raise awareness of its new F1 coverage and attract both existing fans and new audiences.
One of the most tangible improvements Apple has teased is a dramatic upgrade in video quality. Cue explained that Apple will stream 4K content with far less compression than traditional broadcasts, delivering richer visuals and clearer motion during live race coverage.
Additionally, the platform will offer more flexible viewing options, such as tailored team-focused feeds and potentially innovative camera angles using mobile devices deployed in unconventional locations around circuits, drawing inspiration from unique perspectives showcased in F1 The Movie.
According to Apple, many viewers who saw the movie were inspired to tune into the sport for the first time, underscoring the company’s belief that F1 has appeal beyond traditional motorsport fans.
Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali echoed this vision, emphasizing that the partnership is not just about broadcasting races but about deeply integrating the sport into U.S. culture. He hopes that with Apple’s promotional might and year-round engagement, Formula 1 will become a regular part of American sports consumption.
Apple’s plan also hints at future content expansions, including the possibility of an F1 The Movie sequel, and suggests the company will continue experimenting with how fans can engage with live racing, data overlays, and interactive features. While full details will emerge closer to the start of the 2026 season, one thing is clear: Apple’s broadcast overhaul could redefine how millions of fans experience Formula 1 in the digital age.
