Where To Watch F1 In 2026 As New Streaming Deals Shake Up Access

Where To Watch F1 In 2026 As New Streaming Deals Shake Up Access...

Formula 1 fans in the U.S. are scrambling to find where to watch races this season after major broadcast changes took effect in January 2026. The sport's new $200 million streaming deal with Amazon Prime Video has left some viewers confused about access, sparking a surge in searches this week as the Bahrain Grand Prix approaches on March 15.

ESPN, which previously carried all races on cable, now shares coverage with Prime Video under a complex arrangement. The streaming platform will exclusively broadcast six races this season, while ESPN airs the remaining 18 on ABC or ESPN networks. This split comes after F1's U.S. viewership grew 28% in 2025, prompting the shakeup.

Fans without Prime subscriptions face new paywalls for previously free-to-watch races. The Miami Grand Prix (May 3) and Las Vegas Grand Prix (November 21) will both stream exclusively on Amazon, a decision that's drawn criticism from longtime viewers. Social media saw over 15,000 complaints last month about the fragmentation.

For cord-cutters, F1 TV Pro remains the most comprehensive option at $79.99/year, offering every practice session, qualifying round, and race without blackouts. However, the service requires a VPN for some live events due to regional broadcasting restrictions.

The changes arrive as F1 prepares for its biggest U.S. season yet, with three American races and growing interest from younger demographics. Industry analysts note the shift mirrors broader trends in sports media, where streaming platforms are increasingly outbidding traditional networks for premium content.

Viewing guides published by F1 this week clarify that ESPN+ will simulcast all races airing on ESPN networks, while the Prime Video exclusives won't appear elsewhere. The confusion stems from inconsistent messaging during the offseason transition, according to Motorsport.com's U.S. editor.

With preseason testing underway, teams are urging fans to verify their access before next weekend's season opener. Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff acknowledged the frustration during a press conference yesterday: "We want every fan to have equal opportunity to follow the sport they love."

As of March 7, Google Trends shows "where to watch F1" searches up 340% compared to this time last year. The query spiked after F1's official social media accounts began promoting the Bahrain GP without clear broadcast details.

For those needing immediate clarification:

• ESPN/ABC: 18 races (check local listings)
• Prime Video: 6 exclusive races (subscription required)
• F1 TV Pro: All sessions globally (premium subscription)
• F1 TV Access: Replays only ($29.99/year)

The F1 Commission meets next week to review fan feedback about the new distribution model. Meanwhile, sports bars across major cities are advertising "Watch All Races Here" promotions to capitalize on the confusion.