The Sports Media Podcast F1 to Apple, ESPN’s John Lasker on DTC and MLB festivities
Jul 17, 2025
Adam Stern, a motorsports maven for SBJ, and John Lasker, ESPN's Senior VP for Direct-to-Consumer, dive into the transformative $150 million annual deal between F1 and Apple. They discuss its potential ramifications for traditional sports broadcasting, particularly ESPN and UFC. The duo also explores ESPN's innovative streaming strategies and the latest highlights from the MLB All-Star Game, such as the reception of the new 'Swing Off' event. Expect insights on evolving viewer trends and what the future holds for sports media.
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Surprise $150M F1 Apple Deal
- Apple's $150 million yearly bid for F1 surprises given ESPN's long tenure with the sport.
- The deal signals a major shift from traditional TV to tech-driven streaming, potentially exclusive on Apple TV.
Visibility Risks Moving F1 to Streaming
- Moving F1 exclusively to Apple TV risks losing visibility due to lower streaming subscribers vs cable.
- ESPN's SportsCenter likely will reduce F1 coverage without broadcast rights, impacting exposure.
Apple's Broader F1 Partnership Vision
- Apple's F1 deal is more than media rights; it includes tech integrations and marketing with Apple hardware and AI.
- Apple executives' passion for F1, the success of F1 the movie, likely influence this expansive partnership.