Disney+ Secures Global Streaming Rights for Formula E Racing
The deal ends Formula E’s primary partnership with Roku and allows the league to retain local television agreements in select markets.
Disney+ has secured the global streaming rights for the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship, establishing itself as the new primary digital home for the electric vehicle racing league. The agreement covers more than 140 territories worldwide and is scheduled to commence with the 2026/27 season.
Under the terms of the deal, Disney+ will broadcast 21 rounds across 13 distinct racing events. The season is set to begin on 18 December in Saudi Arabia, with subsequent races scheduled in major markets including Miami, Monaco, and Mexico City.
In the United States, viewers will have access to the races on both Disney+ and ESPN+. The partnership structure permits Formula E to maintain existing local television broadcast agreements in specific markets, providing a hybrid distribution model that combines global streaming with regional terrestrial or cable coverage.
This move marks the conclusion of Formula E’s long-standing primary streaming partnership with Roku. The streaming device manufacturer had previously served as the league’s digital home and produced a documentary series to highlight the sport. The transition to Disney+ signals a significant shift in the league’s media strategy as it seeks broader international reach.
Formula E, which utilises electric vehicles for its competitions, has been operating since 2014. The league has reported a steady increase in popularity in recent years, prompting the search for a more expansive broadcasting partner. The deal with Disney+ represents a major step in the league’s efforts to capitalise on growing interest in motorsport and sustainable technology.
The acquisition stands in contrast to the strategy employed by rival motorsport series. Formula 1 recently ended its collaboration with Disney’s ESPN and entered into a partnership with Apple for official US broadcasting rights, highlighting the competitive landscape for sports media rights.
The announcement, first reported by Variety, underscores the increasing value placed on niche but growing sports properties by major media conglomerates. For investors and industry observers, the deal highlights the ongoing consolidation of sports broadcasting rights within the streaming sector.
