Netflix Debuts Live Formula 1 Broadcast with 2026 Canadian GP in US

For the first time, Netflix will offer a live Formula 1 race to its US audience during the 2026 Canadian Grand Prix, held from May 22 to 24 in Montreal. This single-race broadcast represents Netflix’s initial foray into live F1 coverage.

Apple TV+ has secured exclusive US streaming rights for the entire 2026 Formula 1 season through a five-year contract valued at approximately $750 million, averaging $150 million annually. This deal nearly doubles the previous rights fee paid by ESPN, which held the US broadcast rights for eight years at about $85 to $90 million per year, according to Motorsport.com. ESPN will no longer carry any F1 races in the US.

Content Exchange Between Apple TV+ and Netflix

The arrangement between Apple TV+ and Netflix includes a content swap: Netflix will broadcast the Canadian Grand Prix live in the US, while Apple TV+ will obtain US streaming rights to the eighth season of the popular Formula 1 documentary series, Drive to Survive. This marks the first time the series will be available simultaneously on two major platforms during its launch period.

Implications for US and UK Viewers

US viewers face a split viewing landscape, with Apple TV+ covering the full race calendar and Netflix offering access to just the Canadian GP. Subscribers to Netflix can watch this live race without needing to subscribe to Apple TV+ for the entire season. This one-off broadcast appears to be a strategic test by Netflix, which has experience streaming live sports such as Major League Baseball games and concerts.

In contrast, UK audiences will see no change in their Formula 1 coverage. Sky Sports retains exclusive rights through 2029, unaffected by the US-focused deals involving Apple TV+ and Netflix.

Significance of the Canadian GP Broadcast

The Canadian Grand Prix broadcast window for Netflix is confirmed as May 22 to 24, exclusively for US subscribers. This event provides Netflix with an opportunity to gauge interest among the millions of Drive to Survive viewers who have yet to watch a live race. The outcome could influence whether Netflix pursues additional live F1 broadcasts in the future.

Streaming Sports Rights and the Future of F1 Broadcasting

Apple TV+’s $150 million annual investment underscores the growing value streaming platforms place on live sports content and signals the end of traditional cable TV coverage for Formula 1 in the United States. In 2026, US fans will rely solely on streaming services for F1 access, with no conventional television alternative. Netflix’s expansion into live race coverage will depend on audience numbers during this weekend’s Canadian GP broadcast.