Apple to stream Las Vegas Formula 1 race free in the US

Free race weekend coverage

Apple has announced that the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix will stream for free on the Apple TV app in the United States. According to 9to5Mac, no Apple TV subscription or other payment is required.

Anyone in the US can sign in to the Apple TV app and watch the full race weekend. That includes the practice sessions, qualifying and the race itself.

The Las Vegas Grand Prix takes place next week, running from Thursday through Saturday.

Where to watch on any device

The racing coverage sits in the Formula 1 hub on the Apple TV app. The app runs on a wide range of devices, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, Android phones, Windows PCs, Xbox and PlayStation consoles.

Viewers can also watch in a web browser at tv.apple.com. This means the free coverage is not limited to Apple hardware.

Apple has not said whether the free streaming will extend beyond this race weekend or to viewers outside the United States.

A night race with a distinct look

Las Vegas hosts one of the few night races on the Formula 1 calendar. The broadcast is expected to show off the neon-lit setting of the city as the cars race past the famous strip.

The free broadcast gives Apple a chance to showcase its coverage of the sport to a wide audience. Apple became the home of Formula 1 broadcasting in the US in a deal announced earlier this year.

Why Apple is opening the gates

Removing the paywall for one weekend is a familiar way for streaming services to attract new viewers. Apple appears to be using the high-profile Las Vegas event to promote its Formula 1 rights and the Apple TV app.

For US fans who do not subscribe, the offer is simple: download or open the Apple TV app, find the Formula 1 hub and watch the weekend without paying.

Race fans who want to tune in should check the Apple TV app for the exact schedule of practice, qualifying and the race.