Apple TV+ F1 Ratings Beat ESPN in First Race Victory

Apple's streaming service exceeds expectations with its debut Formula 1 coverage in the U.S.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 11:42pm

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In a significant milestone, Apple TV+'s first-ever broadcast of a Formula 1 race in the U.S. surpassed ESPN's viewership for the Australian Grand Prix. This marks a pivotal moment, signaling a potential shift in how motorsports fans consume live racing coverage. Beyond just viewership numbers, Apple is offering a uniquely integrated viewing experience with features like Multiview, Podium View, and driver cams, combined with stunning 4K Dolby Vision quality.

Why it matters

Apple's entry into the Formula 1 streaming market disrupts the traditional cable television model that has long dominated motorsports coverage in the U.S. This could broaden F1's audience, particularly among younger demographics accustomed to streaming services. The success of Apple's F1 coverage also highlights the growing power of tech companies in the media landscape, challenging the dominance of traditional broadcasters.

The details

Eddy Cue, Apple's Senior Vice President of Services, confirmed that the Australian Grand Prix 'exceeded both F1 and Apple expectations' in terms of viewership. Apple is offering a range of innovative features, including Multiview, Podium View, and driver cams, which are enhancing the viewing experience and driving engagement. The launch of the Apple Sports app, which saw its 'biggest week ever' coinciding with the Australian Grand Prix, further solidifies Apple's strategy of providing a centralized hub for live sports and data.

  • The Formula 1 season kicked off with the Australian Grand Prix on March 10, 2026.
  • The upcoming Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai is scheduled for April 14, 2026.

The players

Eddy Cue

Apple's Senior Vice President of Services.

Formula 1

The premier international open-wheel racing series.

ESPN

The American sports television network that previously held the rights to broadcast Formula 1 in the U.S.

Apple TV+

Apple's streaming service that has acquired the rights to broadcast Formula 1 in the U.S. for the next five years.

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What they’re saying

“The race 'exceeded both F1 and Apple expectations'.”

— Eddy Cue, Apple's Senior Vice President of Services

What’s next

The upcoming Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai on April 14, 2026, presents another opportunity for Apple TV+ to build on its momentum. Races in more U.S.-friendly time zones, like Montreal and Miami, are expected to further boost viewership. Apple's five-year deal with Formula 1 suggests a long-term commitment to the sport, and continued investment in innovative features is likely.

The takeaway

Apple's successful debut in Formula 1 streaming in the U.S. signals a potential shift in how motorsports fans consume live racing coverage. The tech giant's integrated viewing experience, featuring innovative features and stunning 4K quality, has attracted viewers and challenged the dominance of traditional broadcasters. This success could inspire other sports leagues to explore similar streaming partnerships, further transforming the media landscape.