Apple Inc. is in advanced talks to acquire the U.S. broadcasting rights for Formula 1 racing starting in 2026, according to multiple reports including the Financial Times and Puck News. This move follows the commercial success of Apple's Formula 1-themed film "F1: The Movie," starring Brad Pitt, which grossed approximately $293 million within its first 10 days of release. Apple has reportedly submitted a bid in the range of $150 million to $200 million annually for the rights, significantly exceeding the current deal held by ESPN, which pays about $85 million to $90 million per year. ESPN has indicated it will not match Apple's offer, making Apple the leading contender to become the new U.S. home for Formula 1. The acquisition would expand Apple TV+'s sports streaming portfolio, which already includes Major League Baseball and Major League Soccer games. Liberty Media, the owner of Formula 1, is expected to finalize the contract next year. The shift would mark a notable change in the U.S. sports broadcasting landscape, with Apple challenging Disney's ESPN for exclusive rights to a high-profile live sports property.