The high-octane world of Formula 1 roars back into action this weekend at the picturesque Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria. Following a brief hiatus, the Austrian Grand Prix is set to captivate racing enthusiasts on Sunday, June 28th, with a scheduled start time of 9 a.m. ET. For viewers in the United States, accessing the thrilling motorsport action has transitioned to an exclusive streaming model via Apple TV. This weekend offers a unique opportunity for non-subscribers to witness all the race events, including practices and qualifying, completely free of charge. Beyond this special offer, fans can delve into the world of F1 through various subscription options and bundled deals.
For those eager to catch every moment of the Austrian Grand Prix, a crucial detail to remember is the exclusive broadcasting partnership Apple TV now holds in the U.S. This means that all official F1 sessions, from initial practice runs to the main race, will be available through the Apple TV application. An exciting development for this particular event is Apple TV's decision to provide complimentary access to the entire weekend's program for individuals without a subscription. Simply downloading the Apple TV app to your smart television or streaming device will grant you entry to the live broadcasts. Furthermore, for supplementary F1 content, including practice and qualifying sessions, the Yahoo Sports Racing Hub serves as an alternative viewing platform.
The shift to Apple TV marks a significant change for American F1 fans, making streaming the primary method of engagement. While a subscription typically costs $12.99 per month after any trial periods, the current free access for the Austrian Grand Prix weekend is a noteworthy concession. New users can also leverage a seven-day free trial, and recent purchasers of eligible Apple devices might qualify for an extended three-month free period. Additionally, F1 TV Premium, which offers extensive live race coverage, analysis, documentaries, and historical archives, is now bundled with an Apple TV subscription, allowing for integrated access for existing F1 TV users. This integration simplifies the viewing experience, providing a comprehensive F1 library at one's fingertips.
Beyond the direct Apple TV subscription, other avenues exist for fans to indulge in the F1 season. T-Mobile subscribers on qualifying plans can access Apple TV at a reduced rate of $3 per month, presenting a cost-effective option. Another attractive offering is the Apple TV and Peacock Premium bundle, priced at $14.99 per month, or the ad-free version for $19.99 per month. This bundle not only includes F1 content but also grants access to a broad spectrum of entertainment, including acclaimed original series, live sports like MLS and MLB, and an extensive film library. This comprehensive package caters to a wider audience seeking diverse entertainment alongside their Formula 1 passion.
The 2026 Formula 1 season is a global spectacle, with races held in diverse and iconic locations. The schedule, spanning from March to December, features a variety of Grand Prix events across different continents. Following the Austrian Grand Prix, the calendar continues with races such as the British Grand Prix, Belgian Grand Prix, and Hungarian Grand Prix in July. Later in the year, the circuit will visit the Netherlands, Italy, Spain, Azerbaijan, Singapore, and various locations in the Americas, including the United States, Mexico City, São Paulo, and Las Vegas. The season culminates with the Qatar Grand Prix and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in late November and early December, promising a full year of thrilling motorsport action for fans worldwide.
This weekend, the Formula 1 Austrian Grand Prix offers a fantastic opportunity for both devoted followers and new viewers to experience the excitement of top-tier racing. With Apple TV as the new exclusive U.S. broadcaster, and a temporary free viewing option for the current event, accessing the Grand Prix has never been easier. Coupled with the extensive content available through F1 TV Premium and various bundled subscription choices, fans have multiple pathways to immerse themselves in the complete Formula 1 experience throughout the 2026 season. From live races to in-depth analysis and historical content, the comprehensive offerings ensure that every aspect of the sport is within reach for enthusiasts.