Apple’s F1 Movie Tops $509 Million as Streaming and Rights Strategies Accelerate
By falling short of its roughly $600 million break-even point, the movie’s massive gross has prompted a reassessment of Apple’s digital release schedule alongside its live sports ambitions.
Overview
- F1: The Movie has generated over $509 million in global ticket sales, surpassing previous Apple-backed films to become the studio’s top theatrical performer.
- Its combined production and marketing costs, estimated at $350–450 million, set a break-even threshold near $600 million due to revenue sharing with Warner Bros. and theaters.
- Crowded summer lineups have led Apple to consider an early premium video-on-demand window as soon as mid-August to extend the film’s commercial run.
- Industry forecasts suggest an Apple TV+ debut could follow in late August or early September if PVOD revenues meet expectations.
- Multiple reports indicate Apple is pursuing a nine-figure deal to acquire US Formula 1 broadcast rights beginning in 2026.