Apple TV Integrates Unremovable Formula 1 Channel Ahead of 2026 Season
In a strategic move to bolster its sports content offerings, Apple has introduced a dedicated Formula 1 channel within the Apple TV app. This addition comes in anticipation of the 2026 Formula 1 season, set to commence on March 8 with the Melbourne Grand Prix.
Unveiling the Formula 1 Channel
The new Formula 1 channel has been seamlessly integrated into the Apple TV app’s interface. For users accessing the app via Apple TV devices, iPads, or Macs, the channel appears prominently in the sidebar, adjacent to the existing Major League Soccer tab. Notably, this placement suggests Apple’s commitment to providing direct exposure to each sport, rather than consolidating them under a generic Sports tab.
iPhone users will find the Formula 1 section featured within the Home and Search tabs of the Apple TV app. It’s important to highlight that this channel is a fixed element; users cannot edit, move, or remove it. This ensures that all Apple TV users running iOS 26 or later have consistent access to Formula 1 content.
A Comprehensive Formula 1 Experience
The Formula 1 channel offers a rich array of content designed to engage both seasoned fans and newcomers:
– Archived Races: Users can revisit past races held at the Albert Park circuit, providing a historical context and appreciation for the sport’s evolution.
– Bonus Content: The channel features exclusive pre-season videos, behind-the-scenes footage, and interviews with drivers and teams, offering deeper insights into the world of Formula 1.
– Upcoming Races: Fans can pre-add upcoming races to their Up Next queue, ensuring they never miss a moment of the action.
– Season Schedule: A complete schedule for the 2026 Formula 1 season is readily accessible, allowing fans to plan their viewing accordingly.
Apple’s Foray into Formula 1
Apple’s integration of the Formula 1 channel is the culmination of a series of strategic moves aimed at capturing the attention of motorsport enthusiasts:
– Acquisition of Streaming Rights: In October 2025, Apple secured exclusive U.S. streaming rights for Formula 1, marking a significant expansion of its sports content portfolio. This five-year deal ensures that all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix are available to Apple TV subscribers at no additional cost. Select races will also be broadcast for free each season, broadening access to the sport.
– F1: The Movie: Prior to acquiring streaming rights, Apple produced F1: The Movie, a cinematic portrayal of the high-speed world of Formula 1 racing. The film’s success not only showcased Apple’s commitment to the sport but also set the stage for deeper engagement with the Formula 1 community.
User Experience and Feedback
While the addition of the Formula 1 channel enriches the Apple TV app’s content offerings, the inability to remove or reposition the channel has sparked discussions among users. Some appreciate the direct access to Formula 1 content, while others express a desire for more customizable interfaces. This move reflects a broader trend in digital platforms where content providers prioritize visibility for premium content, sometimes at the expense of user customization.
Looking Ahead
As the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches, Apple’s integration of the dedicated channel signifies a robust commitment to delivering comprehensive sports content. This initiative not only enhances the viewing experience for existing fans but also has the potential to attract new audiences to the thrilling world of Formula 1 racing.
