ESPN to End Formula 1 Broadcast Partnership After 2025
The network's decision opens the door for Netflix, NBC, and others to compete for U.S. F1 media rights.
- ESPN has announced it will not renew its Formula 1 broadcast rights after the current contract expires at the end of the 2025 season.
- The network has held U.S. broadcasting rights since 2018, paying approximately $90 million per season under its current deal.
- Formula 1's growing popularity in the U.S., bolstered by Netflix's 'Drive to Survive,' has led to increased competition for the rights, with Netflix and NBC emerging as potential bidders.
- ESPN's decision aligns with Disney's broader strategy to focus on media rights with sustainable financial returns, potentially influenced by F1's demand for higher fees.
- The 2025 season will be ESPN's final year broadcasting F1, concluding a period of record U.S. viewership growth for the sport.