F1, Miami GP – Apple: “Global expansion? We are thinking about it”
Eddie Cue, senior vice president of services at the streaming platform Apple, has stated the company’s intention to potentially acquire global television rights for Formula 1 in the future.
The electronics giant is significantly strengthening its commitment to Formula 1, both through film production and television broadcasting. During the Miami Grand Prix, Eddie Cue made important comments about the future of the project, highlighting satisfaction with current results and outlining ambitious growth plans.
Starting this season, Apple TV replaced ESPN of The Walt Disney Company to become the exclusive Formula 1 broadcaster in the United States, providing live coverage of all 24 races of the championship. The executive expressed enthusiasm about the impact so far:
“We are excited about how our coverage has been received and Apple intends to play an important role in the growth of this sport.”
The film “F1”, produced by Apple Original Films and starring Brad Pitt, has achieved significant commercial success. With an estimated production budget of around 200 million dollars, it has grossed 634 million dollars worldwide according to IMDb data, and also won an Academy Award for Best Sound.
Cue confirmed that a sequel is highly likely. When asked by Reuters, he stated clearly: “I hope and expect there will be one.”
Global expansion prospects
Although the current agreement is limited to the United States market, Apple is looking with strong interest at future international expansion. Cue explained:
“Sports are not licensed on a global basis. Do I hope we can grow in other regions and markets? Yes, I do.”
However, he also emphasized the current strategy: “Starting in the United States, which is a huge market for us, and building from there is definitely the right approach. Right now, we are focused on making this project a huge success. Then, of course, expanding it would be fantastic.”
The new CEO and support for motorsport
Cue also spoke about the leadership change at Apple, underlining that the appointment of John Ternus as the new CEO in place of Tim Cook will further strengthen the relationship with Formula 1. Ternus is a motorsport enthusiast: he drives a Porsche and takes part in amateur racing events.
“He would have been here this weekend, but he is at Laguna Seca,” Cue revealed, adding: “He is a huge, huge F1 fan and a strong supporter of this project. You will continue to see full support from him.”
He concluded with confidence about Apple’s approach:
“When we do something, we do not do it halfway. The things we do, we go all the way. We strongly believe this will make a big difference in what we can do to help motorsport.”
Apple’s expanding footprint in Formula 1—from its successful US broadcasting debut to its Oscar-winning film—signals a long-term commitment to the sport that looks set to grow even stronger under new leadership.
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