Stefano Domenicali sounds the charge against the NFL and NBA – Formula 1 will switch exclusively to Apple TV from 2026 – A bold move for the US market
Formula 1 is sounding the charge for its next major attack in the US. With the official launch of the partnership between the premier class and Apple TV, Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is reinforcing his ambitious vision: he wants to anchor the sport deeply in US culture – on a par with giants such as the NFL and the NBA.
Starting in the 2026 season, Apple TV will be the exclusive broadcast partner of Formula 1 in the United States, replacing long-time broadcaster ESPN. At a press conference in Los Angeles, Domenicali and Eddy Cue, Apple’s Senior Vice President of Services, got fans excited about this new era.
“More than just a dream”
Domenicali sees the collaboration with the tech giant as the decisive lever to reach US fans even more directly. “This is a great opportunity that we will approach with passion and determination, because we are persistent,” the Italian said combatively via F1.com.
For the F1 boss, the goal is clearly defined: Formula 1 should not remain a niche product for early risers, but should become an integral part of everyday sporting life overseas.
“I always said to Eddy: We have a dream that is more than just a dream—it is a commitment to our fans to develop the sport in such a way that Formula 1 becomes part of the culture here in the United States,” said Domenicali.
He shows great respect for the growing sports landscape in the US, but deliberately sets the bar high: “Our dream would be that one day, people wake up not just to watch the Super Bowl, the NBA, or the MLS, but also Formula 1. That’s exactly what we’re going to tackle together.”
The “Apple effect”: From movie theater to broadcaster
The exclusive partnership is the next logical step in an increasingly close relationship. The foundation was already laid with the F1 feature film, a production by Apple Original Films.
Directed by Joseph Kosinski and produced by legend Jerry Bruckheimer, the film brought Hollywood greats such as Brad Pitt, Javier Bardem, and Damson Idris to the paddock of the premier class. The fact that seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton not only appeared in front of the camera but also served as executive producer underscored the authenticity of the project. Since its release in June 2025, the film has fueled massive interest in the sport—now Apple TV plans to use this momentum to take coverage to a new level starting in 2026.