Apple TV Accelerates into F1 - New Dedicated Channel Launches

In a significant boost for motorsport enthusiasts in the United States, Apple has rolled out a dedicated Formula 1 channel (pictured) within its Apple TV app, marking the start of an exclusive broadcasting era for the sport.

–by Mark Cipolloni–

Announced on February 16, 2026, the channel’s appearance comes just weeks before the 2026 F1 season kicks off with the Australian Grand Prix at Melbourne’s Albert Park on March 8. This development is part of a landmark five-year partnership between Apple and Formula 1, positioning Apple TV as the go-to platform for live F1 coverage in the US.

The Road to Apple’s F1 Takeover

The partnership traces back to October 17, 2025, when Apple and Formula 1 officially unveiled their collaboration, making Apple the exclusive US broadcast partner for F1 from 2026 through 2030. This deal outbid previous broadcasters like ESPN, reflecting Apple’s aggressive expansion into live sports content, building on successes with Major League Soccer (MLS) and the blockbuster “F1” movie starring Brad Pitt, which became the most-watched film in Apple TV+ history.

Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, Eddy Cue, highlighted the excitement: “We’re thrilled to expand our relationship with Formula 1 and offer Apple TV subscribers in the U.S. front-row access to one of the most exciting and fastest-growing sports on the planet. 2026 marks a transformative new era for Formula 1, from new teams to new regulations and cars with the best drivers in the world.”

The agreement ensures comprehensive coverage, including all practice sessions, qualifying, Sprint races, and Grands Prix. It replaces the standalone F1 TV Pro service in the US, integrating premium features directly into Apple TV subscriptions. Formula 1’s own statement emphasized the synergy: “This new broadcast agreement will see Apple TV host all Free Practice, Qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix.”

Channel Launch and Accessibility

The F1 channel debuted seamlessly in the Apple TV app for US users, appearing in the sidebar on living room devices, as a quick link on tv.apple.com, and as a shortcut in the Search tab on iOS devices. Notably, the channel is fixed and cannot be edited, moved, or removed, underscoring Apple’s commitment to prominent sports integration.

Apple TV F1 Channel — Apple TV Formula 1 Channel

Access is tied to an Apple TV+ subscription, priced at $12.99 per month or $99 annually, with no additional cost for F1 content. Subscribers can bundle it via Apple One, get it free with the Apple Music Student Plan, or through carrier promotions. For non-subscribers, all practice sessions are free throughout the season, with select full race weekends also available without a paywall—though details on which ones remain unspecified. To watch all 24 races, however, a subscription is required.

Features and Content Highlights

The channel offers an intuitive interface with quick links to upcoming and past sessions, plus engaging supplementary material like historic race clips from Albert Park to hype the season opener. It displays detailed weekend schedules, including practice, qualifying, and race times.

A key perk is seamless integration with F1 TV Premium, previously a separate $79.99 annual service. Apple TV+ subscribers gain free access to F1 TV’s advanced features—such as multi-view, onboard cameras, live team radios, and telemetry—via account linking in the F1 TV app or website.

Users with existing F1 TV accounts are prompted to cancel duplicates and link via Apple for uninterrupted premium access. Pre-season testing, underway in Barcelona, is streamable for subscribers, though availability varies by device—some users report better access on mobile than on TVs.

Apple promises “premium and innovative fan-first coverage,” with more on exclusive production enhancements expected soon. The service is compatible across devices, including web, iOS, Android, Amazon Fire, Roku, and Chromecast, though some premium features are limited on certain platforms.

Fan Reactions and Challenges

The launch has sparked a mix of enthusiasm and frustration among fans. On social media, posts from outlets like 9to5Mac and MacHash quickly spread the news, garnering thousands of views and likes. Many appreciate the bundled access, with one Instagram user sharing a tutorial on linking accounts: “U.S. F1TV stans we have an update!!! You can keep the F1TV app and link your @appletv account.”

However, complaints include the loss of standalone F1 TV Pro, device-specific content glitches, and the requirement for an Apple TV+ subscription. Reddit threads and Facebook groups discuss timelines, with users noting content rollout began around February 6-7 for testing. One fan vented: “I’m so pissed !!!! I signed up for Apple TV, f1 tv on my phone . They are linked now on my phone. I have Apple TV on my TV but can’t find any content on the tv.”

Looking Ahead: A High-Octane Future

This move aligns with Formula 1’s growth in the US, fueled by Netflix’s “Drive to Survive” and new American teams. If successful, Apple may expand the deal internationally. For now, it solidifies Apple’s sports portfolio, potentially paving the way for more immersive experiences like AR integrations or exclusive behind-the-scenes content.

As the 2026 season approaches—with new regulations, teams, and stars like Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari—US fans have a streamlined, high-tech way to follow every lap. Whether you’re a die-hard racer or casual viewer, the F1 channel on Apple TV promises to rev up the viewing experience like never before.