Netflix Sets Sights on Formula 1 TV Rights in the US
As Formula 1 continues to dominate the global sports scene, with its high-octane races thrilling audiences around the world, a new contender has emerged in the battle for TV rights in the United States. Netflix, the streaming giant known for its hit original content, is reportedly eyeing the opportunity to become the new media rights partner for F1 in the US starting in 2026.
Currently, ESPN holds the rights to broadcast F1 in the US, taking over from NBC Sports in 2018. Over the years, F1 has signed short-term deals with ESPN, recognizing the region as a key growth market. The current deal with ESPN is set to expire at the end of 2025, opening the door for potential new partnerships.
While ESPN remains a strong contender to retain the rights, recent reports suggest that Netflix has entered the fray, signaling its serious interest in securing the broadcasting rights. The streaming service made a strategic move by hiring Kate Jackson, former vice president of production at ESPN, as its new director of sports. This move underscores Netflix’s commitment to expanding its sports coverage, with Formula 1 being a key target.
The relationship between Netflix and F1 has already proven successful, thanks to the popular docuseries “Drive to Survive,” which debuted in 2019 and provided viewers with a behind-the-scenes look at the high-stakes world of Formula 1. Additionally, Netflix showcased the Netflix Cup golf and F1 crossover event in Las Vegas in 2023, further solidifying its ties to the sport.
Netflix’s foray into live sports coverage has been gaining momentum, with the streaming service broadcasting a range of events, including Christmas NFL games, an exhibition boxing match featuring Mike Tyson and Jake Paul, and WWE’s weekly “Raw” event. Moreover, Netflix has secured the US rights to the FIFA Women’s World Cup for both 2027 and 2031, highlighting its growing presence in the sports broadcasting landscape.
The competition for sports rights among streaming services is heating up, with Amazon and Apple also making significant investments in live sports coverage. Amazon, known for its NFL broadcasts, and Apple, which airs MLB and MLS games, are expected to be key players vying for the F1 TV rights alongside Netflix.
Notably, both Amazon and Apple have existing ties to the world of sports, with Amazon Web Services serving as a global partner of F1, and Apple producing an upcoming movie starring Brad Pitt that is centered around the sport. This convergence of entertainment and sports underscores the growing importance of live events in capturing audience attention and engagement.
In the US motorsport landscape, recent shifts have been seen with IndyCar’s move from NBC Sports to FOX as its primary broadcast partner, set to take effect in the upcoming season. These changes reflect the dynamic nature of the sports media industry, as broadcasters seek to align themselves with premium content and diverse audience interests.
When reached for comment about the ongoing negotiations surrounding the F1 TV rights, an ESPN spokesperson declined to provide details, citing a corporate policy of not discussing ongoing negotiations. The silence from ESPN hints at the intense competition and strategic maneuvering taking place behind the scenes as key players vie for the lucrative broadcasting rights.
As the battle for Formula 1 TV rights in the US intensifies, viewers can expect to see a new era of sports broadcasting unfold, with streaming services like Netflix poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sports entertainment. Stay tuned for more updates as the negotiations progress and the landscape of sports media continues to evolve.
