Formula 1 (F1) is gaining traction among American media consumers as the 2026 race lineup approaches, despite a lack of American drivers since 2024. The US viewer base for F1 has significantly increased thanks to the Netflix series 鈥淔ormula 1: Drive to Survive.鈥� The emergence of the F1 Club at Campo in 2023 illustrates the sport's growing appeal, merging interests in racing and engineering. However, F1's association with wealth and exclusivity, along with regulatory changes aimed at sustainability, may pose challenges to retaining this newfound interest.

By the Numbers
  • F1 viewership in the US has more than doubled under Liberty Media.
  • This season marks the first time in over 40 years that three F1 races occurred in the US.
Yes, But

Despite rapid growth, some fans express concerns that new regulations may diminish the excitement of races. The uneven revenue distribution between teams could also create inequalities that dampen competition and predictability.

State of Play
  • The popularity of F1 is rising among younger audiences, spurred by increased media exposure.
  • There is a notable intersection of engineering and sport in new F1 communities like at Campo.
What's Next

The future of F1's popularity in the US hinges on its ability to sustain viewer interest beyond media hype and navigate concerns over competition. Continued evolution in the sport鈥檚 structure and accessibility will be crucial.

Bottom Line

F1 is poised at a pivotal moment in the American sports landscape, with its future dependent on balancing regulatory changes with audience engagement and fairness in competition. Maintaining this momentum is essential for F1's integration into US sports culture.