Apple Eyes U.S. Formula 1 Broadcast Rights in Major Sports Streaming Push

Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL) is reportedly in talks to acquire the U.S. broadcasting rights for Formula 1, aiming to challenge Disney-owned ESPN as the current holder of the F1 media contract. According to the Financial Times, Apple plans to enter the bidding when the rights become available next year, signaling a strategic expansion into live sports streaming.

The move follows the box office success of Apple’s Formula 1-themed movie starring Brad Pitt, which marked the company’s biggest theatrical hit to date. The film grossed over $300 million, nearly matching its reported production budget of $200–$300 million. The success has strengthened Apple’s confidence in the global appeal of F1 and its potential to drive engagement on Apple TV+.

Apple has been gradually expanding its sports content portfolio. In 2022, it signed agreements to stream Major League Baseball's Friday night games and partnered with Major League Soccer for exclusive broadcasting rights. Securing Formula 1 would significantly boost Apple’s presence in the competitive sports streaming space, where it competes with Amazon, Netflix, and Disney.

While ESPN has been the U.S. broadcaster for Formula 1, its exclusive renewal window closed without a deal, opening the door for new bidders. Formula 1 has yet to finalize its U.S. broadcasting strategy, but Apple’s entry could reshape the landscape, especially given its resources and growing interest in premium live content.

As streaming platforms race to secure top-tier sports rights, Apple’s potential F1 deal could mark a turning point, highlighting its ambition to become a major player in global sports media.