According to Puck News via John Ourand’s newsletter, Apple is reportedly close to finalizing a multi-year agreement for Formula 1 streaming rights, with the goal of making an official announcement “in-house” during the United States Grand Prix in Austin, scheduled from October 17 to 19.
The contract, estimated to be worth over $150 million per year, would allow the Cupertino-based platform to broadcast races through the Apple TV app, adding F1 to its existing sports lineup that already includes Major League Soccer and Major League Baseball. The deal would come ahead of the expiration of ESPN’s rights, set for the end of the 2025 season.
The main obstacle, according to John Ourand, concerns the future of F1.TV in the United States. Apple reportedly seeks full exclusivity, requesting the service to be closed in the region, while Formula 1 wants to keep it active due to its profitability and popularity among the most dedicated fans. Negotiations over this point have so far delayed the signing of the agreement.
If all goes according to plan, the official announcement could come in the next few weeks, right at the Austin circuit — the same venue where, three years ago, Tim Cook waved the checkered flag to the delight and excitement of fans.
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