Apple TV is set to offer U.S. viewers free access to the entire Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix weekend, marking the first time a full race event will be available without a subscription. This initiative allows fans to watch all sessions live, including practice, qualifying, and the main race, at no cost.
This move is part of Apple’s broader strategy to enhance its sports content offerings. In October 2025, Apple secured exclusive U.S. streaming rights for Formula 1, beginning with the 2026 season. This five-year agreement includes comprehensive coverage of all races, practice sessions, and qualifying rounds, with select events made available for free each season.
Apple’s commitment to Formula 1 extends beyond live race coverage. The company has integrated additional features to enrich the viewing experience. For instance, during the Miami Grand Prix, Apple introduced up to 30 simultaneous live feeds, including onboard cameras, real-time timing data, and a Driver Tracker displaying the full field. A dedicated Podium feed follows the top three drivers throughout each session, and the Multiview feature allows viewers to customize their viewing layouts across supported devices.
These enhancements have been well-received, with executives noting increased engagement and higher viewership. The transition from traditional cable to streaming on Apple TV has been smoother than anticipated, with fans appreciating the immersive and interactive features that the platform offers.
Apple’s foray into Formula 1 also includes original content. The company released “F1: The Movie” in August 2025, which became available for streaming on Apple TV in December 2025. Additionally, Apple struck a deal with Netflix to stream the popular docuseries “Drive to Survive” on Apple TV in the U.S., starting with season eight in February 2026.
By offering the Austrian Grand Prix weekend for free, Apple aims to attract new viewers to its platform and showcase the enhanced features that differentiate its coverage from traditional broadcasts. This strategy not only broadens the audience for Formula 1 in the U.S. but also positions Apple TV as a premier destination for sports content.
As Apple continues to invest in sports broadcasting, it will be interesting to see how these initiatives influence viewer habits and the broader streaming landscape. The success of this free streaming event could pave the way for similar offerings in other sports, further solidifying Apple’s presence in the competitive streaming market.
