What Happened to F1 TV?

F1 TV, Formula 1's direct-to-consumer streaming platform, was first announced in February 2018 and officially launched in May 2018, building on the legacy of the earlier F1 Digital+ service from 1996 to 2002. The service was designed to cater to hardcore fans, offering commercial-free live streams of every session, multi-language commentary, access to all 20 driver onboard cameras, and live timing data. It initially launched with two tiers: F1 TV Pro, providing live coverage, and F1 TV Access, offering delayed replays and archive content.

The platform steadily expanded its features and global reach, reflecting Formula 1's broader digital transformation strategy and its aim to connect with younger, digitally-native audiences. In March 2025, F1 TV introduced a new, premier tier called F1 TV Premium, which offered 4K Ultra HD/HDR video quality and a personalized Multiview feature allowing simultaneous viewing of up to six different feeds on compatible devices. This upgrade further enhanced the immersive viewing experience for fans in available markets.

A pivotal turning point for F1 TV, particularly in the United States, occurred in October 2025. Apple TV secured exclusive streaming rights for Formula 1 in the US for a five-year deal starting in 2026, reportedly worth over $700 million. This deal meant that F1 TV Pro subscriptions would be phased out for US-based fans after the 2025 season, with existing annual renewals ending by November 2025 and monthly subscriptions ceasing by December 8, 2025. Consequently, all F1 content, including the advanced features previously offered by F1 TV Pro and Premium, became integrated into the standard Apple TV subscription for US viewers, at no additional cost beyond the Apple TV subscription fee.

As of March 2026, F1 TV continues to operate and evolve globally, offering its Pro and Premium tiers with comprehensive live coverage, multi-camera options, and enhanced regional features, including new language commentary options and launches in markets like South Korea. However, in the US, the 2026 Formula 1 season officially began with Apple TV as the exclusive broadcaster, integrating F1 TV's core functionalities directly into its platform. Apple's strategy involves leveraging its entire ecosystem, including Apple News, Apple Maps, and Apple Music, to amplify F1 content and engage a wider audience. Early reports from March 2026 indicated that viewership for the first F1 race on Apple TV was up year-over-year compared to ESPN's 2025 broadcast, though specific numbers were not released by Apple. This strategic shift highlights the increasing value of sports media rights and the growing trend towards exclusive streaming partnerships in the digital age.