Liberty Media: Formula 1 revenues surge 53% in strong start to 2026

Operating income rose sharply to $107 million from a $28 million loss in Q1 2025, while Adjusted OIBDA doubled to $172 million.

Liberty attributed the increase to strong underlying growth, an additional race held during the quarter, and continued expansion across sponsorship, media rights, hospitality, and licensing.

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali said: “We had a thrilling start to the season, both on and off the track, with increased overtaking and a highly competitive early season.”

“We continue to see positive momentum across our business, including a strong start to our partnership with Apple in the U.S., a renewed multi-year agreement with our long-standing partner, Sky and the addition of new commercial relationships, including those with Standard Chartered and Marsh.”

Primary Formula 1 revenue climbed 55% to $496 million, driven by higher race promotion fees, media rights income, and sponsorship growth. Other Formula 1 revenue increased 44% to $121 million due to stronger Paddock Club sales, premium hospitality offerings, licensing income, and activities at the Las Vegas Grand Prix Plaza.

The company also confirmed new multi-year sponsorship agreements with Marsh, FanDuel and Betway, while extending existing partnerships with Salesforce and Allwyn. Broadcast agreements with Sky in the UK and Italy, Foxtel in Australia and beIN across Asia were also renewed.

Liberty said Formula 1 held three races during the quarter compared to 2 in Q1 2025, although the 2026 calendar is currently expected to feature 22 races, two fewer than last season following the cancellation of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia because of geopolitical tensions.

Domenicali added: “We remain focused on continuing to evolve the sport, including strengthening how we connect with fans globally and working with the FIA and teams to make the racing product even better. Together, we are committed to delivering competitive racing and continuing our industry leading growth.”

Liberty Media President and CEO Derek Chang described Formula 1’s commercial momentum as evidence of the strength of its global platform: “Formula 1 continues to demonstrate the strength of its global platform, with growing audiences and deepening fan engagement driving robust demand across all commercial elements.

Despite the cancellation of two Middle East races, Formula 1 entered 2026 with strong commercial momentum, rising global audiences and growing sponsor demand across the board.

The results underlined Formula 1’s continued financial strength under Domenicali, even as the sport faces increasing criticism over its controversial new regulations and the direction of the on track product.