Apple won’t be able to get F1 rights for the UK and Italy for at least six years

Sky Locks Down F1 Rights: Why Apple TV+ Will Have to Wait in the UK and Italy

If you’ve been following the rumors about Apple’s massive push into sports broadcasting, you probably know that 2026 is set to be a landmark year for Formula 1 fans in the US. With Apple TV+ securing the rights stateside, the tech giant seemed poised to disrupt the international market next. However, Sky has just made a decisive move to ensure that won’t be happening in Europe anytime soon.

Sky has officially renewed its exclusive broadcasting agreements for the UK, Ireland, and Italy, effectively shutting the door on Apple’s expansion in these key territories. The new deals are long-term commitments: fans in Italy are locked into Sky until at least 2032, while those in the UK and Ireland will see coverage remain on Sky Sports through 2034.

Why Sky Acted Now

This wasn’t just a routine renewal. By extending their contracts well before the current expiration dates, Sky successfully avoided a messy, high-stakes bidding war. With Apple’s deep pockets and clear interest in F1, Sky chose to play defense, securing the rights before the ‘Apple tax’ could drive the price through the roof.

The Billion-Dollar Price Tag

Holding onto the fastest show on earth doesn’t come cheap. The extension for the UK and Ireland alone is reportedly worth approximately $270 million per year. Over the decade-long span of the deal, that adds up to a staggering $1.35 billion. It’s a clear signal that for traditional broadcasters, live sports remain the ultimate leverage against the rising tide of streaming platforms.

For fans in the UK and Italy, the viewing experience remains consistent for the foreseeable future. While Apple might be the new home for F1 in America, Sky Sports remains the undisputed king of the grid across the pond.