**Apple’s Possible Purchase of Formula 1 Streaming Rights: What We Know**
Recently, Liberty Media CEO Derek Chang alluded to a major agreement with Apple regarding the U.S. streaming rights to Formula 1. This news has ignited extensive speculation about when Apple will make an official announcement.
### The Context of the Deal
Following the debut of *F1: The Movie*, reports have surfaced suggesting that Apple has been negotiating with Liberty Media to obtain the broadcasting rights for the 2026 Formula 1 season on Apple TV+ in the United States. Prominent publications like the *Financial Times*, *Business Insider*, and *Puck* have highlighted the growing likelihood of this deal materializing.
At the Goldman Sachs Communacopia & Technology Conference, Chang mentioned, “I think it’s been pretty well-documented in terms of the negotiations, we are pretty far along, and we’re pretty happy and comfortable with sort of where we’re going to end up. (…) Hopefully we’ll have something to talk about relatively soon.” Although Chang did not explicitly name Apple, the context implies that Apple is the leading candidate for acquiring these rights, particularly considering its status as a frontrunner after ESPN.
### Timing of the Announcement
The term “relatively soon” raises inquiries about when precisely Apple will unveil the news. Some speculate it may occur as early as tomorrow during Apple’s eagerly awaited “Awe Dropping” event, which is one of the company’s most important platforms for announcements annually.
In light of the successful promotional efforts surrounding *F1: The Movie*, an announcement regarding streaming rights would seamlessly align with the momentum created by the film’s theatrical release. Fans are keen for Apple to reveal a streaming date, especially since the film has been available for on-demand purchase and rental for several weeks.
### Apple TV+ and Its Offerings
Apple TV+ is currently priced at $12.99 per month and offers a variety of popular shows and films, including *Severance*, *The Studio*, *The Morning Show*, *Shrinking*, and *Silo*. The inclusion of Formula 1 streaming rights would enhance Apple TV+’s offerings and draw a wider audience of motorsport enthusiasts.
### Conclusion
As talks progress and anticipation heightens, Apple’s potential acquisition of Formula 1 streaming rights signifies a considerable shift in the realm of sports broadcasting. With Derek Chang’s recent remarks, all attention is on Apple for an announcement that could transform how fans in the U.S. interact with Formula 1 racing.
