Apple TV is getting every F1 race in the US next season at no extra cost

Apple just fired the starting gun on its biggest sports play yet. Formula 1 is coming exclusively to Apple TV in the US under a new five-year deal, and it’s included with your Apple TV subscription. No add-on pass. No blackout maze. Just lights out and away we go.

What Apple is Actually Offering

This isn’t a half step. Apple says subscribers get all sessions, practice, qualifying, Sprints, and every Grand Prix, inside the Apple TV app. That’s a sharp contrast to MLS Season Pass, which lives as a separate subscription. Here, F1 is part of the base Apple TV plan.

Apple will also make some coverage free to everyone. The company says select races and “all practice sessions” will stream without a subscription, which should pull new fans in and keep weekends buzzing.

Apple’s Pitch, in Apple’s Words

“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,” said Eddy Cue, Apple’s senior vice president of Services. “2026 marks a transformative new era for Formula 1, from new teams to new regulations and cars with the best drivers in the world, and we look forward to delivering premium and innovative fan-first coverage to our customers in a way that only Apple can.”

What Happens to F1 TV and Where You’ll Watch

Apple says F1 TV “will continue to be available in the U.S. via an Apple TV subscription only and will be free for those who subscribe [to Apple TV].” In practice, you’ll sign in with your Apple Account to watch Apple TV’s feed and use your F1 TV credentials where needed — all inside the Apple TV app on your device of choice.

Production, Talent, and The Broadcast Feel

Announcer plans aren’t locked in publicly yet, but expect Apple to chase that polished, data-rich presentation it’s been building across sports. Think clean graphics, deep stats, and frictionless multi-view. The company says it will offer a “more dynamic and elevated viewing experience“ than what’s been done before.

The Ecosystem Boost

Apple doesn’t just buy rights. It cross-promotes. Expect F1 everywhere:

Apple Sports with live leaderboards, standings, Live Activities, and a home screen widget.
Apple News highlights on race days.
Apple Music playlists for teams and drivers.
Apple Fitness+ racing-inspired workouts.
Apple Maps guides for host cities and circuits.

What it Means for Fans Right Now

If you already pay for Apple TV, F1 access is baked in. That’s huge value for $12.99 per month.
New fans can sample practice sessions and select races free to see what the hype is about.
Expect clearer scheduling, fewer app hops, and stronger second-screen features as Apple dials this in.

The Road Ahead

This deal is US-only for now, but if the rollout hits Apple’s quality bar, wider rights bids feel inevitable. For 2026 and beyond, Apple has the runway to rethink how we watch a race weekend, from qualifying drama to the checkered flag, without making fans pay twice.

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Eric Sandler

Chief Writer at WiFi Planet

Eric Sandler is a veteran US tech writer with over 25 years of experience covering the latest advancements in the world of technology. From groundbreaking innovations to in-depth reviews, Eric has built a reputation for delivering insightful, reliable content. His work spans across a variety of tech topics, including smartphones, gadgets, AI, and more, making him a trusted voice in the industry.