Apple has signed a $700 million deal to broadcast Formula 1 races in the United States.
The news was confirmed on Friday as both parties agreed to a five-year contract. The tech giant will begin streaming races from next year.
Stefano Domenicali, Formula 1’s CEO, said Apple would help bring the sport into more American homes over the coming years.
“It’s the perfect match to be, hopefully as soon as possible, socially relevant in a way that everyone can wake up and think about Formula 1, as you’re thinking about NFL or NBA or MLS,” Domenicali added.
The announcement comes as Apple looks to build on the success of the F1 film released earlier this year, starring Brad Pitt alongside several real-life drivers. The film has grossed more than $630 million at the global box office so far.
Netflix’s Drive to Survive series has also played a major role in raising the sport’s profile.
