Apple TV+ does not carry Formula 1 races, but you can watch F1 through other streaming services
Apple TV+ is a subscription video service that focuses on original shows, movies, and documentaries. It does not include live sports broadcasts or Formula 1 races. If you want to watch F1 on a streaming service, you will need a different subscription or a cable package that includes sports channels.
The rights to broadcast Formula 1 vary by country and change every few years as new contracts are signed. In the United States, ESPN+ holds the streaming rights and shows most F1 races live. In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports has the exclusive broadcast rights. Other countries have different arrangements, so where you live determines which service carries F1.
Key Takeaways
- Apple TV+ does not offer Formula 1 races or live sports of any kind.
- In the United States, ESPN+ is the primary streaming service for F1 races.
- F1 broadcast rights differ by country, so your location determines which service carries the races.
- Some cable packages still include F1 through ESPN or other sports channels if you prefer traditional television.
- F1TV Pro is an official Formula 1 streaming service available in some regions outside the US and UK.
Where to watch Formula 1 in the United States
ESPN+ is the main streaming home for Formula 1 in the United States. The service streams all practice sessions, may have access to rounds, and race broadcasts live. You can watch on the ESPN+ app on your phone, tablet, computer, or connected TV device. ESPN+ costs a monthly subscription fee separate from Apple TV+.
If you have a cable or satellite TV subscription that includes ESPN, you can also watch F1 races on the ESPN channel during broadcast times. Some races air on ABC as well, which you can watch through cable or over the air if you have an antenna. Check your local TV listings or the ESPN website for the race schedule and which channel will show each event.
F1TV Pro and other international options
Outside the United States and United Kingdom, Formula 1 operates its own streaming service called F1TV Pro. This service is available in many countries and offers live race streams, practice sessions, may have access to, and on-demand replays. F1TV Pro is run directly by Formula 1 and does not require a separate sports streaming subscription.
F1TV Pro is not available in the US or UK because ESPN+ and Sky Sports hold exclusive rights in those regions. If you live in a country where F1TV Pro operates, you can check the official Formula 1 website to see if it is available in your area and what the subscription cost is.
Why Apple TV+ does not carry sports
Apple TV+ is designed as an entertainment streaming service focused on scripted shows, films, and documentaries that Apple produces or licenses. Live sports require expensive broadcast rights, dedicated commentary teams, and real-time streaming infrastructure. Apple has chosen not to pursue sports broadcasting as part of its TV+ offering.
Apple does own the rights to broadcast some Major League Soccer (MLS) matches through a separate service called MLS Season Pass, which is distinct from Apple TV+. This shows that Apple can acquire sports rights when it chooses to, but Formula 1 has not been part of that strategy.
How to watch F1 on your Apple TV device
Even though Apple TV+ does not have F1, you can still watch Formula 1 on an Apple TV device by downloading the ESPN+ app. The Apple TV box (4th generation and newer) supports the ESPN+ app, and you can sign in with your ESPN+ subscription to stream races.
You can also use AirPlay to stream F1 from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to an Apple TV if you have the ESPN+ app on those devices. This lets you watch on your television even if the ESPN+ app is not directly installed on your Apple TV hardware.
F1 race schedule and timing
Formula 1 races take place throughout the year, typically on weekends. The exact schedule changes annually, but races usually occur from March through December. Practice sessions and may have access to rounds happen on Friday and Saturday before each Sunday race.
Because many F1 races are held in Europe, some races broadcast early in the morning on the US East Coast and very early on the West Coast. ESPN+ offers on-demand replays of every race, so you can watch later in the day if you cannot watch live. Check the ESPN or Formula 1 website for the current season schedule and broadcast times in your time zone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I watch F1 highlights on Apple TV+?
Apple TV+ does not carry Formula 1 content, including highlights or documentaries about current races. However, ESPN+ sometimes offers highlight clips, and you may find F1 documentaries on other streaming services like Netflix or Disney+.
Does ESPN+ cost extra if I already have Apple TV+?
Yes. ESPN+ is a separate subscription from Apple TV+. You need to pay for ESPN+ independently to watch Formula 1. Some people bundle ESPN+ with Disney+ and Hulu for a lower combined price.
Can I watch F1 on Apple TV if I have cable?
If your cable package includes ESPN or ABC, you can watch F1 races on those channels through your cable provider's app or website. You do not need Apple TV+ for this, but you do need an active cable subscription that includes sports channels.
Is there a free way to watch Formula 1?
Some races air on ABC, which is free over the air if you have an antenna or through the ABC app if you have a cable login. However, not every race broadcasts on ABC — most require ESPN+ or cable. Check your local listings to see which races are free in your area.
Will Apple TV+ ever get Formula 1?
There is no announcement that Apple TV+ plans to add Formula 1. Sports rights are expensive and change hands every few years based on bidding. ESPN+ currently holds the US rights, but this could change in the future if Apple bids for them.