Apple has announced that U.S. viewers can watch the entire 2026 Austrian Grand Prix weekend live and free on Apple TV. This includes all practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the main race from June 26 to June 28, without requiring a subscription.
This offering is part of Apple’s five-year exclusive partnership with Formula 1, which began in 2025. The agreement grants Apple TV the rights to stream all F1 races in the United States, encompassing practice sessions, qualifying rounds, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix. Notably, select races and all practice sessions are available for free throughout the season.
Apple’s involvement with Formula 1 has been growing. In 2025, the company released “F1: The Movie,” starring Brad Pitt as a veteran driver making a comeback. The film achieved significant success, grossing $629 million globally, making it the highest-grossing Apple Original Film and sports movie of the year. This success reportedly influenced Apple’s decision to secure streaming rights for Formula 1 in the U.S.
Additionally, Apple has integrated Formula 1 content into its ecosystem. The Apple Sports app was updated in 2025 to include support for F1 racing, allowing fans to stay updated on race information. More recently, Apple Maps introduced an immersive 3D experience of the Miami F1 Grand Prix, offering users a virtual exploration of the circuit.
Apple’s strategy to offer free access to the Austrian Grand Prix aligns with its broader efforts to attract sports enthusiasts to its platform. By providing high-profile sporting events without a subscription, Apple aims to enhance user engagement and showcase the capabilities of Apple TV. This move also positions Apple as a significant player in sports broadcasting, competing with traditional networks and other streaming services.
