U.S. viewers are getting a new way to watch Formula One. After the ESPN contract drew to a close at the end of the 2025 season, a new platform is taking the reins with a dedicated Formula One channel. The Apple TV app is taking over all things F1, with new sneak peeks showing the service will stream every practice, qualifying, sprint, and Grand Prix session under a five-year, exclusive U.S. rights deal. It begins with the 2026 season, so learn how you can watch the Formula One channel below.
Formula One Channel
For those who are currently subscribed to Apple TV, no need to worry. The new channel will be included with your base subscription at no extra charge. Plus, for those who want to watch for free, there will be select races and all practice sessions available to stream in the TV app. The new contract is intended to link F1 coverage across Apple’s many platforms, including Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+.
In addition to the main race, there will be other new perks on the Formula One channel that F1 viewers can take advantage of without needing to pay an extra fee. For instance, live driver onboard cameras and a Multiview mode will allow fans to watch multiple perspectives at the same time. Data reports have found that Multiview and onboard-cam suites are essential to F1’s success, especially within their own streaming products. Based on the previews released from Apple, the Formula One channel will also be getting these perks, built into compatible devices like Apple TV, iPad, and Apple Vision Pro.
Current Users
Another huge plus for fans is that Apple will continue to support fans who prefer to use F1’s existing apps and services. Users will be able to sign into F1.TV with their Apple TV account to view the same Pro and Access features currently provided by Formula 1. It helps bridge the gap without losing the extra perks like multi-language commentary and archival content that hardcore viewers love.
Getting Apple TV for 2026
The first race slotted under Apple’s contract takes place on March 6th-8th, 2026. It is important to note, though, that Apple has mentioned the Formula One channel and preseason content may appear on Apple TV before that date. If you want to join the craze and watch the Formula One channel, Apple TV subscriptions currently cost $12.99/month or $99/year. It can also be purchased through Apple One bundles as part of a larger package.
Final Thoughts
While Apple claims the move is a part of expanding access for viewers, it marks a change in how viewers will watch Formula One in the U.S. next season, transitioning from a sports-rights cable partner to a platform-controlled streaming model. So, if you’re a fan of F1 and want to catch the action in 2026, get the Formula One channel through Apple TV now.
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