Disney+ Secures Global Streaming Rights for Formula E
Electric vehicle races to be broadcast in over 140 countries via Disney+ and ESPN+ platforms.
1Disney+ Becomes Global Broadcaster for Formula E
Disney+ has acquired global streaming rights for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship. The deal will bring races to audiences in more than 140 countries through Disney+. In the US, content will be available on both Disney+ and ESPN+. According to Variety, the agreement also allows Formula E to maintain local TV broadcast deals in certain markets.
2Effective from 2026/27 Season
The new broadcasting arrangement will commence with the 2026/27 season. Disney+ will air 21 races across 13 different events. The season kicks off on December 18 in Saudi Arabia. The calendar includes major stops in Miami, Monaco and Mexico City. This deal is part of Formula E's strategy to expand its global audience reach.
3The Rise of Electric Vehicle Racing
Formula E is a motorsport championship featuring exclusively electric-powered cars since 2014. The series has been gaining popularity with its focus on sustainable mobility. Previously, Roku served as Formula E's primary broadcaster and even produced documentary series about the championship. The Disney+ deal marks the end of this partnership.
4Different Strategy from Formula 1
Formula E's competitor Formula 1 has adopted a different broadcasting approach in the US. F1 recently ended its partnership with Disney's ESPN and transferred US broadcasting rights to Apple. These contrasting strategies between the two motorsport series highlight the growing importance of digital platforms in sports broadcasting.
5Disney's Expansion in Sports Broadcasting
This deal reflects Disney's efforts to expand its sports content portfolio. Through ESPN, the company has been acquiring rights to various sports events. Adding an eco-conscious championship like Formula E aligns with Disney's sustainability-focused content strategy. The move aims to reach younger, environmentally-conscious audiences.
6Streaming Platforms' Sports Race
Digital platforms like Disney+, Netflix, Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video are fiercely competing for sports broadcasting rights. Niche sports that appeal to younger generations have become valuable content. The Formula E deal demonstrates Disney+'s attempt to gain an edge in this competitive landscape.
7Support for Electric Vehicle Industry
Formula E's growing popularity contributes to the advancement of electric vehicle technologies. The races provide automakers with opportunities to test new technologies. Being broadcast on a mass-reach platform like Disney+ could help promote electric vehicles and shift consumer perceptions.
8Turning Point in Global Sports Broadcasting
The Disney+-Formula E deal serves as a significant example of how digital platforms are transforming traditional sports broadcasting. Platforms offering simultaneous broadcasts in over 140 countries dramatically increase global reach for sports organizations. This trend is expected to strengthen further in coming years.
Original article: Engadget — Formula E, Disney+ ile Küresel Yayıncılık Anlaşması Yaptı