Apple Inc. has reportedly submitted a substantial bid of at least $150 million per year to acquire exclusive U.S. streaming rights for Formula 1 races starting in 2026, according to Business Insider. This move positions Apple as the leading contender to secure the rights, as current holder ESPN—owned by Walt Disney—has chosen not to match or exceed the offer.
The development marks a significant push by the tech giant into live sports streaming, aligning with its broader digital content strategy. Neither Apple nor Formula 1’s parent company, Liberty Media, responded to requests for comment from Reuters regarding the reported negotiations. The bid follows Apple’s recent entertainment success with “F1: The Movie,” starring Brad Pitt, which has grossed over $300 million globally.
Currently, ESPN holds the U.S. broadcast rights for Formula 1 races through the end of the 2025 season. However, its exclusivity period to negotiate a renewal with Formula 1 has already lapsed, as previously reported in February. This opens the door for Apple to take over the rights without facing a counterbid from ESPN.
If successful, the deal would further solidify Apple’s growing presence in the sports and streaming industries, enhancing its Apple TV+ platform and capitalizing on the growing U.S. fanbase for Formula 1. The proposed acquisition reflects the rising value of global sports properties in the competitive streaming landscape.