NEW YORK – Tech giant Apple Inc. is reportedly in talks to acquire Formula 1 broadcast rights in the United States, signaling a major step into the world of motorsports broadcasting after the box office success of its film F1: The Movie.
The Brad Pitt-led movie, produced in collaboration with Formula 1 teams and studios, garnered significant global attention and impressive earnings in its opening weeks. Its success appears to have accelerated Apple’s interest in securing live sports content, particularly in a market where F1’s popularity continues to rise.
Industry sources suggest Apple is preparing a competitive bid for the U.S. rights, currently held by ESPN, whose exclusive negotiation window has recently closed. The potential deal could be worth over $100 million annually, making it one of the most valuable sports streaming contracts in the country.
Apple has already made notable strides in sports streaming through Major League Baseball and Major League Socceron Apple TV+, and acquiring Formula 1 rights would further cement its presence in live sports broadcasting.
Formula 1 viewership in the U.S. has seen steady growth, fueled by the success of Netflix’s documentary series Drive to Survive and the addition of more American circuits to the race calendar. Analysts believe that Apple’s interest aligns with its broader strategy of integrating high-quality entertainment with exclusive sports content.
Neither Apple nor Formula 1 officials have issued a formal statement regarding the ongoing discussions.
Reported by PakTribune Tech & Media Desk
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