In a significant development for Formula 1’s media landscape, Netflix has emerged as a potential successor to ESPN for the US broadcasting rights of the sport from 2026. The streaming giant’s interest marks another chapter in F1’s evolving media strategy in one of its key growth markets.

ESPN, which has held the broadcasting rights since 2018 after taking over from NBC Sports, is now facing competition as its period of exclusivity in negotiations has expired. This development allows F1 to explore opportunities with other media platforms, with active discussions currently taking place in the United States.

Netflix’s interest is particularly noteworthy given the existing strong relationship between the two parties, primarily built through the highly successful “Drive to Survive” docuseries that debuted in 2019. The streaming service has already demonstrated its commitment to sports broadcasting by hiring Kate Jackson, former ESPN vice president of production, as its new director of sports.

The potential acquisition of F1 rights would align with Netflix’s recent expansion into live sports coverage. The platform has already secured rights for several major sporting events, including:

• 2024 Christmas NFL games with global broadcasting rights
• The exhibition boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul
• WWE’s weekly “Raw” event
• FIFA Women’s World Cup US rights for both 2027 and 2031

However, Netflix isn’t alone in its pursuit. Other streaming giants, including Amazon and Apple, are expected to show interest in acquiring the F1 rights. Both companies already maintain connections to the sport – Amazon Web Services serves as a global F1 partner, while Apple is currently producing an F1-themed movie starring Brad Pitt.

The timing of these discussions coincides with broader changes in US motorsport broadcasting, as IndyCar recently transitioned from NBC Sports to FOX for its primary coverage. F1’s strategy of maintaining shorter-term deals in the US market has been deliberate, allowing the sport to capitalize on its growing popularity and emerging opportunities in the region.

When approached for comment about the ongoing negotiations, ESPN representatives declined to provide any statement, citing corporate policy regarding active negotiations.

This potential shift in F1’s US broadcasting partnership could mark a significant milestone in both the sport’s media distribution strategy and Netflix’s expanding live sports portfolio, potentially reshaping how American audiences consume Formula 1 content from 2026 onwards.