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Apple eyes U.S. Formula 1 broadcast rights after movie success: report
Apple is reportedly negotiating to acquire U.S. Formula 1 broadcast rights as they become available next year, spurred by the success of their racing film 'F1: The Movie,' which has earned $293 million in its opening days. Apple aims to challenge ESPN, while Netflix is also a potential contender for the rights amid rising F1 popularity in the U.S.
Key points
- Apple is in talks for U.S. Formula 1 broadcast rights becoming available next year.
- 'F1: The Movie,' starring Brad Pitt, has grossed $293 million in its first 10 days.
- Current U.S. broadcaster ESPN, owned by Disney, will be challenged by Apple.
- Netflix's series 'Formula 1: Drive to Survive' significantly increased F1's popularity in the U.S.
- Netflix is also competing for the F1 rights for the 2026 season as ESPN's exclusivity expired.
Why it matters
- The growing interest in Formula 1 in the U.S. aligns with trends in sports media consumption.
- In 2025, the expansion of streaming services for live sports may reshape broadcasting landscapes.
- The significant financial success of sports-themed content (e.g., 'F1: The Movie') highlights changing viewer preferences.
Apple's pursuit of Formula 1 broadcast rights reflects the company's strategy to leverage successful media content and engage with expanding sports audiences in the U.S.