A New Era for Live Sports Streaming
By Motorsports.media | February 8, 2025
In a bold move to expand its live sports portfolio, Netflix is reportedly considering a bid for the US broadcast rights to Formula 1 starting from the 2026 season. This development comes as the current rights holder, ESPN, approaches the end of its contract, which is set to expire after the 2025 season.
Netflix’s interest in live sports has steadily grown, particularly after the success of its docuseries “Drive to Survive.” This series has significantly boosted Formula 1’s popularity in the United States, making the sport more accessible and engaging to a broader audience.
The streaming giant has already made notable strides in live sports broadcasting. In recent years, Netflix has ventured into airing high-profile events such as the Mike Tyson-Jake Paul fight and NFL games on Christmas Day. The company also secured a groundbreaking 10-year deal to broadcast WWE Raw, showcasing its commitment to diversifying its content offerings.
With the bidding process for Formula 1’s US broadcast rights expected to begin soon, Netflix is evaluating its options. Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s co-CEO, has indicated that live events and sports are integral to their strategy of broadening programming. This move aligns with Netflix’s ongoing efforts to offer a diverse range of content that appeals to various demographics.
However, Netflix is not the only player in the game. Other potential bidders, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Peacock, are also expected to vie for the lucrative rights. The competition is fierce, and it remains to be seen who will emerge victorious in securing the coveted broadcast rights.
For Formula 1, a partnership with Netflix could usher in a new era of viewership, leveraging the streaming platform’s extensive reach and innovative approach to content delivery. As fans eagerly await the outcome, the prospect of watching Formula 1 races on Netflix is an exciting possibility that could reshape the landscape of sports broadcasting in the US.
Motorsports.media | Graphic: Motorsports.media
