Formula 1 Races Now on Apple TV in the US

A new dedicated channel for Formula 1 has been established within the Apple TV app, signaling a significant shift in how fans in the United States will access the sport's content. This integration means that Formula 1 broadcasts, including all practice sessions, qualifying, Sprint races, and Grands Prix, are now available to Apple TV subscribers. This move ahead of the 2026 season commencement marks a substantial change from previous viewing arrangements.

Comprehensive Integration of Formula 1 Content

Apple's commitment to Formula 1 extends beyond simple broadcasting. The company has entered into a five-year deal to host F1 broadcasts in the US, with the sport now featured across various Apple platforms.

• Centralized Viewing: A dedicated Formula 1 channel is now present in the Apple TV app's sidebar, positioned alongside Apple TV Originals and MLS tabs.

• F1 TV Premium Inclusion: An Apple TV subscription now includes access to the F1.TV premium package at no additional cost. This package grants viewers comprehensive access to all race content.

• Cross-Platform Access: Content can be streamed via the Apple TV app on compatible devices, as well as through the web interface at tv.apple.com.

Shift in Broadcast Strategy and Fan Experience

The introduction of the Formula 1 channel on Apple TV represents a deliberate strategy to consolidate and enhance the fan experience. This consolidation appears designed to streamline access and potentially increase engagement with the sport.

Read More: Taylor Swift Tells Story of US Figure Skaters for Olympics

• Consolidated Subscriptions: Previously, viewers required a separate F1.TV subscription. Now, this is integrated into the existing Apple TV subscription, potentially simplifying costs and access for many users.

• Broadcasting Commentary: Initial observations suggest that commentary might be provided by sources like Sky Sports, as indicated by an "Event Schedule: Sky Sports" section within the channel. This raises questions about whether Apple will provide its own hosts or commentary.

• Enhanced Features: The F1.TV Premium package, now part of the Apple TV subscription, includes features such as 4K resolution, multi-view capabilities, onboard camera feeds, and live team radio. The availability and integration of these advanced features directly within the Apple TV app versus the standalone F1.TV app are points of ongoing clarity.

Implications for Viewers and the Sport

This new arrangement is poised to alter how fans engage with Formula 1, potentially impacting viewership numbers and the overall accessibility of the sport.

Read More: India's AI Summit Starts with Long Lines and Confusion

• Required Subscription: To watch Formula 1 content, live or on demand, viewers in the U.S. now must maintain an active Apple TV subscription.

• Cost Savings for Existing Subscribers: Fans who previously subscribed to both F1.TV and Apple TV may see cost savings, as the F1.TV premium package is now bundled.

• Family Sharing: The Apple TV subscription supports Family Sharing, allowing up to six users to access the Formula 1 content.

• Accessibility: While most content requires an Apple TV subscription, some practice sessions and select races are noted to be available for free viewing within the Apple TV app.

Expert Analysis and Future Outlook

The strategic alignment between Formula 1 and Apple signifies a significant investment in the sport's digital presence and fan engagement in the U.S. market.

"Apple is upshifting its focus on racing after a five-year rights deal and a successful movie project." – Engadget

Read More: British Speed Skating Faces Big Problems for 2026 Games

The transition also prompts inquiries regarding the future of the standalone F1.TV app and service, though official details on this aspect remain under development. The first race of the 2026 Formula 1 season is scheduled for March 7 in Australia, offering an immediate opportunity to observe the new broadcast framework in action.

Key Information Points

• A dedicated Formula 1 channel has launched within the Apple TV app.

• An Apple TV subscription now includes the F1.TV premium package.

• All practice sessions, qualifying, Sprint races, and Grands Prix will be accessible.

• This arrangement is exclusive to U.S. viewers.

• The 2026 Formula 1 season is the first to be fully integrated into this model, commencing with the Melbourne Grand Prix on March 8.

Used Sources:

• 9to5Mac (Article 1): https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/16/the-new-f1-channel-has-appeared-the-in-apple-tv-app-ahead-of-first-race/

• Engadget (Article 2): https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/theres-a-dedicated-channel-for-formula-1-in-the-apple-tv-app-now-230904295.html

• Apple Newsroom (Article 3): https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2025/10/apple-is-the-exclusive-new-broadcast-partner-for-formula-1-in-the-us/

• 9to5Mac (Article 4): https://9to5mac.com/how-to-watch-formula-1-race-apple-tv-stream/

• 9to5Mac (Article 5): https://9to5mac.com/2026/02/04/f1-tv-free-with-apple-tv-link-subscription/

• Dataconomy (Article 6): https://dataconomy.com/2025/12/08/apple-previews-formula-1-channel-in-app/

• Engadget (Article 7): https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/how-to-get-f1tv-with-your-apple-tv-subscription-171534300.html

• StreamDiag (Article 9): https://streamdiag.com/streaming-services/formula-1-apple-tv-streaming-17710/

• 9to5Mac (Article 10): https://9to5mac.com/2025/12/07/apple-tv-formula-1-features-first-look-app/

• Bizofspeed (Article 11): https://www.bizofspeed.com/p/access-f1-tv-with-apple-tv-heres

• TechRadar (Article 12): https://www.techradar.com/how-to-watch/formula-one/how-to-watch-f1-on-apple-tv-free-trial-f1-tv-pro-devices-explained

• 9to5Mac (Article 13): https://9to5mac.com/2026/01/27/apple-tv-launches-f1-programming-in-app-ahead-of-season-kickoff/

• Big14News (Article 14): https://www.big14news.com/formula-1-streaming-moves-to-apple-tv-2026-heres-how/

Read More: Infosys and Anthropic Work Together on AI