Formula 1 launches 2026 season in Melbourne with new teams and landmark Apple TV deal

Formula 1 begins its 2026 era in Melbourne. View the Australian GP schedule, weather forecast, and details on Audi and Cadillac’s debut and the Apple TV deal.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 3, 2026, 4:04 PM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Motorsport

Season Opener in Melbourne

The 2026 Formula 1 campaign is set to commence this weekend at the Albert Park Circuit in Melbourne, Australia. This season marks the introduction of the most significant regulation overhaul in the history of the championship, featuring fundamental changes to both chassis design and power unit architecture. While the competitive pecking order remains speculative following nine days of pre season testing in Barcelona and Bahrain, established frontrunners such as McLaren, Mercedes, Red Bull, and Ferrari are expected to lead the field during the opening sessions.

Broadcasting Shift to Apple TV

A major transition in media rights has taken effect for the 2026 season, particularly for the United States market. Apple TV has officially replaced ESPN as the exclusive broadcast holder for Formula 1 in the U.S. under a five year agreement valued at approximately 140 million dollars annually. Subscribers now have access to every session through the streaming platform, while a separate arrangement with Netflix ensures the continued broadcast of the Drive to Survive docuseries. In the United Kingdom, Sky Sports continues its long term tenure as the primary broadcaster for the 14th consecutive year.

Expansion of the Starting Grid

The 2026 grid features the highly anticipated arrival of two new manufacturers: Audi and Cadillac. While neither team is expected to challenge for podium positions immediately, their entry signifies a significant expansion of factory involvement in the sport. These new arrivals join a reshuffled driver market that includes several notable changes, such as Lewis Hamilton’s debut for Ferrari and the promotion of junior talents like Andrea Kimi Antonelli at Mercedes and Oliver Bearman at Haas.