Apple and Netflix have joined forces to co-broadcast the Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix, marking a significant development in sports broadcasting technology. The partnership, announced by Apple’s senior vice president of services, Eddy Cue, will enable F1 fans in the U.S. to watch the live race simultaneously on Apple TV and Netflix for the first time.
Netflix subscribers will have access to stream the entire race weekend, including practice sessions, qualifying rounds, and the Grand Prix itself on May 24, all live on the platform.
The collaboration also includes a mutual promotion of Netflix’s popular series, ‘Drive to Survive.’ The eighth season of the series, which delves into the 2025 Formula One World Championship over eight episodes, will now reach a broader audience, available to both Apple TV subscribers in the U.S. and Netflix users worldwide.
The eighth season of ‘Drive to Survive’ debuts today, February 27, offering viewers an immersive look behind the scenes of the F1 world. This move reflects the growing influence of F1 in American culture, highlighted by the nomination of Brad Pitt’s F1 film for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.
Apple’s broader F1 strategy includes promoting the sport across various platforms, such as Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, Apple Fitness+, and its retail stores, showcasing a multi-faceted approach to engaging fans.
Moreover, Netflix’s foray into live sports broadcasting, transitioning from a no-sports stance to securing significant rights for NFL Christmas games, WWE Raw, and MLB, underscores the platform’s expanding reach and diversification.
Source: TechCrunch