The End of an Era: Formula 1 Ditches ESPN for a $600M Apple Deal, Sparking Debate Over the Future of Sports Broadcasting
The world of motorsports is in flux, and Formula 1 is at the heart of a seismic shift. But here's where it gets controversial: after years of partnership with ESPN, F1 has decided to cut ties and sign a groundbreaking $600 million media deal with Apple, leaving many to wonder: is this the beginning of the end for traditional sports broadcasting?**
For decades, ESPN has been a cornerstone of racing coverage in the U.S., broadcasting not only NASCAR but also the prestigious Indianapolis 500 as part of its long-standing relationship with the IndyCar Series. However, the real drama began when ESPN re-acquired the F1 broadcasting rights in 2018. At first, it seemed like a minor deal, with ESPN simply simulcasting the international feed from Sky Sports. And this is the part most people miss: it wasn’t until the Netflix documentary Drive to Survive hit the screens that F1’s popularity in the U.S. truly exploded. The show captivated audiences, turning casual viewers into die-hard fans and setting new viewership records for races like the Miami Grand Prix. Yet, just as ESPN seemed to be hitting its stride, F1 has decided to shift gears.
Why the sudden change? Formula 1 is betting big on Apple’s ability to revolutionize its U.S. presence. Starting in 2026, Apple and Formula One Management will kick off a 5-year partnership valued at approximately $140 million annually—a staggering 56% increase from ESPN’s previous deal. This move signals F1’s confidence in Apple’s ecosystem to expand its reach beyond traditional linear television. But is this a risky gamble, or a genius strategy?
Under the new deal, all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, sprint races, and Grand Prixs will be available on Apple TV for subscribers. To maintain broad accessibility, select races will be offered for free. Unlike Apple’s MLS Season Pass, F1 fans won’t face additional fees beyond their Apple TV subscription. But here’s the kicker: Apple plans to integrate F1 into its entire ecosystem, from Apple Maps and News to Music, Sports, and even Fitness+. This level of integration could make F1 a part of daily life for millions of Americans, but will it alienate fans who aren’t already in the Apple orbit?
Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, Eddy Cue, is confident. With over 45 million subscribers, Apple has the reach to give F1 unprecedented exposure. “We’re focused on quality and creating incredible content, and there is no more incredible content than Formula 1,” Cue said. Apple has already proven its commitment to the sport with initiatives like F1: The Movie, which grossed nearly $630 million. But can Apple replicate ESPN’s ability to connect with a broad, diverse audience?
F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali believes so. He emphasizes the cultural and technological alignment between F1 and Apple, stating, “We know the power that they have, the technology that they have, and we know they share the same passion for F1. This is not negotiable; it’s the foundation of our partnership.” Domenicali argues that for F1 to grow in the U.S., it must become part of the culture—something people talk about over breakfast. But is this partnership enough to turn F1 into a cultural phenomenon on par with the NFL or NBA?
Here’s where it gets even more intriguing: F1’s in-house streaming service, F1 TV, will now only be accessible to Apple TV subscribers. While it remains free for those with a subscription, this move consolidates streaming under one global platform. Will this exclusivity boost Apple TV subscriptions, or will it frustrate fans who prefer other streaming services?
ESPN, for its part, has taken the high road, praising the partnership and wishing F1 well. Teams and stakeholders are equally excited. Cadillac F1 Team CEO Dan Towriss sees Apple’s scale, influence, and commitment to innovation as a game-changer for reaching American audiences. But what about the fans? Will they embrace this shift, or will they feel left behind?
As F1 accelerates its American growth, another motorsports giant is making waves. Austin’s Circuit of the Americas (COTA) is set to redefine theme park thrills with COTALAND, a new attraction opening during the 2026 Formula 1 weekend. Featuring two steel roller coasters, a drop tower, and family-friendly activities, COTALAND promises to be a destination in itself. At its heart is the Circuit Breaker, a coaster that climbs 130 feet, pauses on a 90-degree tilt, and plunges riders through tunnels at 60 mph. “It’s one of the most amazing rides around,” said Matt Hughey, COTALAND’s Operations VP. With a two-story restaurant offering panoramic views and over 1,000 meals per hour, COTALAND aims to be as iconic as the races themselves.
So, what do you think? Is F1’s partnership with Apple a bold step forward, or a risky move that could backfire? Will COTALAND live up to the hype? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your thoughts!
