Netflix considering a possible bid to acquire Formula 1 broadcasting rights in America
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Chasing 'live' rights
The bond between Formula 1 and Netflix could become even stronger, and this time not just for the much-debated series Drive to Survive, which since its debut in 2019 has continued to divide fans between those who love it and those who deeply despise it. According to reports published by The Times, the hugely popular streaming platform is seriously interested in submitting an offer to secure the championship's broadcasting rights in the United States starting from the 2026 Formula 1 season.
ESPN currently holds the rights with a $90 million deal (approximately €86.5 million), but it appears that the network's exclusive negotiation period for a new contract with the Circus has just expired, opening the market to potential offers from any interested party. In this context, Netflix would be ready to make its move.
Clash of titans
An indirect confirmation of this comes from the recent hiring by the streaming platform of Kate Jackson, former vice president of production at ESPN, where she oversaw the network's F1 coverage. She has now been appointed Netflix's director of sports to "manage the live sports projects that Netflix has in the pipeline," as reported by Sports Business Journal.
The battle for F1 rights in the USA could thus turn into a showdown between industry giants. In addition to Netflix, Apple is also reportedly interested in making a move to secure the rights. Not to mention that ESPN itself could still come back into play, despite failing to reach a renewal agreement during its exclusivity period. For now, this competition is limited to the overseas market, but it cannot be ruled out that these dynamics may also extend to European territories in the future.
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