Apple eyes US Formula 1 broadcast rights after F1: The Movie success, FT reports

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FILE PHOTO: A women uses an iPhone mobile device as she passes a lighted Apple logo at the Apple store at Grand Central Terminal in New York City, U.S., April 14, 2023. REUTERS/Mike Segar/File Photo

Apple is in talks to acquire U.S. broadcast rights to screen Formula 1 racing when the contract becomes available next year, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The report follows the strong performance of Apples high-octane Brad Pitt-starrer F1: The Movie, which has grossed more than $300 million in worldwide box office collection as of Wednesday, according to IMDbs Box Office Mojo.

Currently, Walt Disneys ESPN holds the exclusive U.S. broadcast rights for F1 through the 2025 season. However, ESPNs exclusivity period to negotiate a new contract with F1 expired, sources told Reuters in February, opening the door for new bidders.

Apple and F1 did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for comment.

Apple is aiming to capitalize on the sports growing popularity in the U.S. which was also driven by the success of Netflixs hit docu-series Formula 1: Drive to Survive that provided an engaging behind-the-scenes look at the sport.

Netflix is also among the contenders for the F1 U.S. broadcasting rights from the 2026 season, according to media reports in February.

Apple TV+, known for original shows such as Ted Lasso, The Morning Show, Shrinking and Severance, has been trailing behind competitors like Netflix, Disney+, and Amazon