Formula 1, the pinnacle of motorsport, has launched a free, ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channel in the United States.
The “Formula 1 Channel” will provide American fans with a new way to experience the thrill of racing.
The channel will offer a variety of content, including replays and highlights of F1, F2, F3, and F1 Academy races, available five days after each event. Fans can also witness full reruns of classic Grands Prix and feature-length racing documentaries.
The launch strategically targets the growing American F1 fanbase, which has surged to over 42 million strong. F1 aims to use the channel as an entry point for new fans to discover the sport and its captivating world. The FAST channel complements existing broadcast offerings, with live races airing on ESPN and in-depth content available through the F1 TV subscription service.
The F1 Channel will debut before the highly anticipated Miami Grand Prix on May 5 and be operated by partner C15 Studio and distributed to leading services including Samsung TV Plus, Amazon Freevee, and Pluto TV.
Ian Holmes, Director of Media Rights and Content Creation at Formula 1, said, “The Formula 1 Channel is the latest development by F1 designed to further evolve and elevate our content experience for fans. This service caters to the diverse viewing habits of our USA fanbase and serves as a great entry point for new fans into the sport, through strong curated programming, which aims to showcase the drama of F1. Together with C15 Studio, we hope to develop the Formula 1 Channel into an industry leading product, that serves alongside our existing live broadcast offering with ESPN and F1 TV, to give fans a truly comprehensive F1 experience 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
This announcement aligns with F1’s recent strategic efforts to expand its global reach. The series recently extended its deal with the trading card giant, Topps, and signed regional sponsorship agreements with McDonald‘s, FanCode, and beIN Sports. These initiatives all contribute to F1’s goal of cultivating a wider and more diverse fanbase.
As the 2024 season heats up, the reigning champion Max Verstappen leads the driver standings with 110 points, followed closely by teammate, Sergio Perez (85 points), Charles Leclerc (76 points), and Carlos Sainz Jr. (69 points). In the constructor standings, Oracle Red Bull Racing Honda RBPT holds the top spot with 195 points, followed by Scuderia Ferrari (151 points) and McLaren Racing (96 points).