Apple TV buys all MLS broadcast rights for 10 years

The latest episode of “Quakes Exclusive” (Season 3, Episode 29) is now available to view in the San Jose Insider section of the San Jose Earthquakes page of MLS Season Pass.

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• “Apple is the exclusive new broadcast partner for Formula 1® in the U.S.” (Apple.com - Friday, 10/17/25)

Apple and Formula 1 will bring all F1 races exclusively to Apple TV in the United States beginning next year.



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The latest episode of “Quakes Exclusive” (Season 3, Episode 30) is now available to view in the San Jose Insider section of the San Jose Earthquakes page of MLS Season Pass.

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• “MLS, Apple TV to bring games outside of extra paywall in 2026: Sources” (TheAthletic.com - Thursday, 11/13/25)

(Stacy Revere / Getty Images)



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• “NEWS: Major League Soccer is Coming to Apple TV Starting in 2026” (SJEarthquakes.com - Thursday, 11/13/25)

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I typed into Grok:

Grok responded:


Thoughts >

As a long-time MLS fan already subscribed to Apple TV (formerly Apple TV+), you're in a prime spot to dip into Formula 1 without any extra cost starting in 2026—when Apple becomes the exclusive U.S. broadcaster for all F1 races, including practices, qualifiers, and Grands Prix. This means live F1 streaming will be bundled into your standard Apple TV subscription (currently $9.99/month), just like MLS matches are now. No separate F1 TV Pro add-on needed, and it'll integrate seamlessly with features like Apple Sports for real-time updates, leaderboards, and even Lock Screen widgets on iPhone.


Why It Could Be Worth It for You

F1 and MLS share some appealing DNA that might hook you: both are team-based competitions with high-stakes rivalries (think McLaren vs. Ferrari mirroring Inter Miami vs. LAFC), passionate international fanbases, and a focus on athletic precision under pressure. MLS has grown massively in the U.S. thanks to Apple's polished production—clean interfaces, no blackouts, and global accessibility—which is exactly the vibe F1 is bringing over from ESPN. If you've enjoyed the MLS Season Pass for its ad-free streams and multi-view options, F1 will feel familiar: up to 6 simultaneous streams per account, 4K/HDR quality where available, and onboard cameras for that immersive driver POV.

F1's global appeal is exploding (52 million U.S. fans in 2024, up from pre-Drive to Survive days), with a younger, more diverse crowd—47% of new U.S. fans under 25, over half female—similar to MLS's urban, multicultural vibe. The 2025 season finale is heating up with McLaren's Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri battling Red Bull's Max Verstappen for the championship, adding soap-opera drama akin to Messi's MLS impact. Plus, Apple's ecosystem (News, Maps, Music, Fitness+) will push F1 content everywhere, potentially surfacing race highlights right in your MLS watchlist.

Recent X chatter from MLS fans echoes this crossover potential: one user noted, "As a fan of both, I assume there’s actually a large amount of crossover... Now that base gets unlocked for MLS, F1 and MLB," highlighting how the bundle makes it a no-brainer. Another called it "pure fire" for Apple TV's sports lineup.


Potential Downsides and the Learning Curve

That said, F1 isn't soccer—it's a tech-heavy spectacle with 20 drivers, 10 teams, and rules around tires, aerodynamics, and pit stops that can feel overwhelming at first. Races last 1.5–2 hours (shorter than MLS games but with more downtime), and the calendar spans 24 events worldwide, often at odd U.S. hours (e.g., Australian GP at 10:30 p.m. ET). If you're not into cars or strategy, the novelty might fade faster than an MLS rivalry week.

Popularity-wise, F1 edges MLS globally (500 million fans vs. MLS's ~100 million, with F1 averaging 80–90 million viewers per race vs. MLS's 200K–300K per match), but in the U.S., they're neck-and-neck niches—both dwarfed by NFL/NBA but growing via streaming. Some F1 fans worry the Apple shift could niche it further by ditching ESPN's broad reach, potentially losing casuals who won't add another sub. But for you? Zero barrier.


| Aspect | MLS (Your Baseline) | F1 (The New Addition) |
|-----------------|--------------------------------------|--------------------------------------|
| Format | 90-min games, 34 regular-season matches/team | 300km races (~90 min), 24 Grands Prix/year |
| U.S. Viewership | ~300K avg. per match, 10M+ season total | ~1M avg. per race, 30M+ season total |
| Global Fans | ~100M, strong in Americas/Europe | ~500M, dominant in Europe/Asia |
| Apple Perks | Ad-free, multi-view, global access | Same + onboard cams, team radio |
| Entry Point | Team loyalty (e.g., your fave club) | F1 The Movie (streaming Dec. 12) or highlights |


Bottom Line: Yes, Give It a Shot

Since your sub already covers it, there's no financial risk—treat the first few 2026 races (starting March in Australia) like trial MLS games. Start with the movie F1 The Movie (Brad Pitt's redemption arc in a fictional team; it's the highest-grossing sports film ever at $629M) for a fun intro, then catch a U.S. GP at COTA in Austin for that live energy. If the speed and stories click (like how Ted Lasso hooked non-soccer folks into MLS), you'll wonder why you waited. If not, it's easy to skip without FOMO. Worst case, you've got Severance and MLS to fall back on. What's your favorite MLS team? That might help tailor F1 team recs (e.g., Ferrari for dramatic flair).


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I typed into Grok:

Grok responded:


As a lifelong San Jose Earthquakes fan, you’re likely drawn to a team with grit, a strong community vibe, and a history of defying odds—qualities that mirror the Quakes’ resilient spirit in MLS. Choosing a Formula 1 team to root for depends on aligning those values with the team’s identity, performance, and narrative. Here’s a breakdown to help you pick:


1. McLaren – The Resurgent Underdog

• Why it fits: McLaren’s recent journey echoes the Earthquakes’ knack for bouncing back. After years of struggle, McLaren has clawed its way to the top, winning the 2024 Constructors’ Championship (their first since 1998). Their focus on teamwork, young talent like Lando Norris, and a scrappy yet innovative culture feels like the Quakes underdog spirit.
• Vibe match: Like San Jose fans who stick through tough seasons, McLaren’s fanbase is loyal and passionate, celebrating the grind. Their papaya orange livery is bold, much like the Quakes’ blue and black.
• Why root for them: If you love a team that fights for respect and delivers against giants, McLaren’s your pick. Plus, their California roots (Bruce McLaren was inspired by West Coast racing culture) might resonate with your Bay Area pride.
• 2025 outlook: With Norris and Oscar Piastri, they’re favorites to defend their title, but they’ll face fierce competition from Red Bull and Ferrari.

2. Williams – The Gritty Rebuilder

• Why it fits: Williams is the ultimate “work in progress” team, much like the Earthquakes during their rebuilding phases (think post-2012 or recent years under Bruce Arena). They’ve got a storied past (9 Constructors’ titles) but are currently fighting to climb the midfield with limited resources.
• Vibe match: Williams’ never-say-die attitude and focus on developing young drivers (like Franco Colapinto) align with the Quakes’ history of nurturing talent like Cade Cowell or Jackson Yueill. Their fanbase is hardcore and appreciates the long game.
• Why root for them: If you’re patient and love cheering for a team that’s all heart, Williams is a great fit. Their Bay Area connection (new team principal James Vowles has emphasized data-driven strategies, a nod to Silicon Valley’s tech ethos) adds a local twist.
• 2025 outlook: They’re not title contenders yet, but their upward trajectory and new drivers make them exciting to follow.

3. Aston Martin – The Ambitious Outsider

• Why it fits: Aston Martin’s bold ambition to go from midfield to front-runners mirrors the Earthquakes’ dreams of returning to MLS Cup glory. With heavy investment from owner Lawrence Stroll and tech partnerships (like Honda for 2026), they’re building something big.
• Vibe match: Their green livery and sleek branding have a modern edge, akin to the Quakes’ rebrand efforts. Their driver, Fernando Alonso, is a veteran fighter, much like Quakes stalwarts like Cristian Espinoza.
• Why root for them: If you enjoy a team with big dreams and a chip on their shoulder, Aston Martin’s push to challenge the elite will feel familiar. Their global fanbase is growing, much like the Quakes’ diverse supporters.
• 2025 outlook: They’re likely to stay in the midfield but could surprise with podiums if their upgrades click.

Recommendation: McLaren

McLaren’s the best match for a San Jose Earthquakes fan. Their recent resurgence, team-first ethos, and underdog mentality align with the Quakes’ history of battling through adversity and rallying their community. Lando Norris’ clutch performances feel like Espinoza’s game-changing moments, and McLaren’s vibrant fan culture will make you feel right at home. Plus, their 2024 success means you’re jumping on a team that’s competitive but not a bandwagon choice like Red Bull.


How to Start Following McLaren

• Watch: Catch F1 races on ESPN or F1TV (the 2025 season starts in March). The Australian Grand Prix (March 16) is a great opener.
• Engage: Follow McLaren on X (@McLarenF1) for updates and join fan discussions. Check out posts from accounts like @F1Fanatic or @TheF1Central for race insights.
• Learn: Dive into McLaren’s story via Netflix’s Drive to Survive (Season 7, out early 2025, covers their 2024 rise) or their official site.
• Connect: Look for Bay Area F1 watch parties (San Jose’s got a growing scene) to bond with fellow fans.

If you want a deeper dive into McLaren’s 2025 prospects, their drivers, or even how their tech compares to the Quakes’ analytics approach, let me know! Or, if you’re leaning toward another team, I can tailor the recommendation. What’s your vibe—grit, glory, or something else?


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• “MLS, Apple rework terms of media rights deal for earlier ending, in 2029” (TheAthletic.com - Friday, 11/14/25)

(Winslow Townson / Getty Images)



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