Directed by Joseph Kosinski and starring Brad Pitt, “F1: The Movie” has become Apple’s most successful film at the box office, surpassing previous hits like “Napoleon,” “Killers of the Flower Moon,” and “Argylle.” The film currently ranks as the seventh highest-grossing movie worldwide in 2025, marking a significant achievement for Apple’s cinematic ventures.
In Australia, the film has climbed to fifth place on the box office charts for the year, raking in over $25.9 million AUD. The story follows a fictional comeback of a retired F1 driver mentoring a young teammate, with scenes shot at real F1 events using modified F2 cars and state-of-the-art onboard camera technology.
Global Success and Strategic Partnerships
Released in over 80 countries, “F1: The Movie” debuted at number one in major markets, including the US, Australia, and the UK. The film’s success is bolstered by strong word of mouth, sustaining ticket sales weeks after its release. Apple produced the film in collaboration with Formula 1, with Warner Bros. handling theatrical distribution.
The production and marketing costs reportedly exceeded $250 million USD ($388 million AUD), making it Apple’s most ambitious film project to date. Streaming rights are anticipated to transition to Apple TV+ later this year, further expanding its audience reach.
Apple’s Growing Interest in Sports Broadcasting
The film’s global triumph coincides with reports that Apple is preparing a bid to acquire Formula 1’s US broadcast rights, as ESPN’s current deal is set to expire at the end of 2025. Industry insiders suggest Apple is in advanced discussions with F1’s commercial rights holders, with a potential nine-figure offer on the table.
ESPN, the current US broadcast partner, has seen its viewership grow, averaging 1.3 million viewers across the first ten races of 2025, up from just over half a million in 2018. While ESPN had an exclusive window to renew its contract, that period has now ended, allowing competitors like Apple to enter the bidding process.
Liberty Media, which owns Formula 1, is reportedly seeking a more lucrative and expansive deal in the US. The country is a key growth market for F1, with new races in Miami and Las Vegas and increasing interest from younger and more diverse audiences, partly driven by Netflix’s “Drive to Survive” and Apple’s blockbuster film.
Implications for Apple and F1
Apple’s interest in sports broadcasting is not new; the company has already secured rights for Major League Baseball and Major League Soccer. As Apple continues to build its Apple TV+ platform, it is expected to invest further in high-profile sports content.
While F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali did not confirm a rights deal, he acknowledged the film’s significant commercial and cultural impact. “I was sure the film would be a hit in the US,” he told Corriere della Sera. “But I was amazed by the box office in Europe. Apple has experimented and could be an important partner for future projects. But I don’t want to overindulge.”
Looking Ahead
The potential acquisition of F1’s US broadcast rights by Apple could reshape the sports media landscape, offering a more integrated viewing experience for fans. As Apple continues to expand its influence in the entertainment and sports sectors, its strategic moves are closely watched by industry analysts and competitors alike.
The next steps for Apple and Formula 1 will be crucial in determining the future of sports broadcasting and the evolving relationship between technology companies and traditional media rights holders. With Apple’s proven track record of innovation and strategic partnerships, the company is well-positioned to make a significant impact in this arena.
