Apple and F1: A New Era for Formula 1 Fans

In a bold move poised to redefine how American audiences experience Formula 1, Apple has unveiled ambitious plans to take over the US broadcast rights starting in the 2026 season. By harnessing its vast ecosystem of hardware, software, and services, the tech giant aims to transform race weekends into immersive, week-long events that extend far beyond the checkered flag.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

The initiative comes as F1 continues its surge in popularity stateside, fueled by factors like Netflix’s Drive to Survive series and high-profile American races in Miami, Austin, and Las Vegas. Apple’s entry into the fray signals a shift toward more integrated, fan-centric coverage, leveraging the company’s strengths in innovation to demystify the sport for newcomers while deepening engagement for die-hard enthusiasts.

At the heart of Apple’s strategy is a commitment to extend F1 coverage into a comprehensive week-long experience. This means building anticipation with pre-race build-up content, delivering real-time race action, and following up with in-depth post-race analysis—all accessible across multiple devices. Jim DeLorenzo, Apple’s global head of sports, emphasized this holistic approach: “One of the things we want to do is create an experience that extends the entire week, not just on race day,” he told motorsport.com

He further highlighted the company’s non-transactional ethos, noting, “We are not a transactional company. We really try and focus on the partnership angle of everything.”

DeLorenzo elaborated on the broader vision, stating, “When we do a partnership like this, it’s not a partnership with Apple Sports or Apple Video, it’s a partnership with Apple… we’re gonna bring the entire company to bear to try to figure out how do we grow together with F1, with the teams, with the drivers.”

This ecosystem-wide integration could include seamless syncing between iPhones, iPads, Apple TVs, and services like Apple Music or Apple News, creating personalized viewing journeys tailored to individual fans.

Technological innovations are a key pillar of the plan. Apple has already demonstrated its prowess in sports broadcasting through experiments like using iPhones as cameras during Major League Baseball games. Similar techniques were employed in the production of the F1 movie, where miniaturized iPhone 15 Pro components captured stunning on-board footage. Expect these advancements to enhance live F1 coverage, offering viewers unprecedented angles and immersive features that make fans feel like they’re in the cockpit.

The partnership also underscores Apple’s role in growing F1’s footprint in the US market. DeLorenzo pointed out the need to “demystify” the sport for new audiences: “As we’re looking to grow the sport in the US, that means in part we have to demystify it… There’s a certain education aspect… while at the same time earning and then keeping the trust of the existing fans.” This balanced approach aims to attract casual viewers through accessible storytelling while rewarding loyal fans with deeper insights and exclusive content.

Collaboration with F1 stakeholders is central to the rollout. Apple’s involvement in the F1 movie production served as a proving ground, fostering relationships with teams and drivers that will inform the broadcast strategy. With incoming American brands like Cadillac and Ford adding to the excitement, the timing couldn’t be better for Apple to capitalize on the sport’s momentum.

As the 2026 season approaches—with new regulations promising closer racing and technological leaps—Apple’s broadcast overhaul could set a new standard for sports media. By prioritizing customer experience and innovation, the company is not just streaming races; it’s crafting a narrative that keeps fans engaged from Monday to Sunday. For F1 aficionados and newcomers alike, this promises to be a game-changer, blending the thrill of high-speed competition with the seamless magic of Apple’s universe.