The highly anticipated Apple Original Film, “F1: The Movie,” has premiered in US theaters, marking a significant moment for both cinematic storytelling and the global phenomenon of Formula 1 racing. Distributed theatrically by Warner Bros., the film debuted on June 27th, 2025, to considerable attention, fueled by its ambitious scope and the sport’s fervent fanbase.
Early reports indicate a strong start for the feature, with an expected opening weekend gross of around $140 million. This robust initial performance underscores the substantial investment made in the project, which carries an estimated cost ranging from $200-$300 million.
Navigating the Post-Theatrical Windows
Following its exclusive run in cinemas, “F1: The Movie” is set to transition through the standard post-theatrical distribution windows before ultimately arriving on Apple’s streaming service, Apple TV+. This phased release strategy is typical for major Hollywood productions, designed to maximize revenue across different consumer access points.
The first window after theatrical exclusivity concludes will be the PVOD (Premium Video On Demand) phase. During this period, viewers will have the opportunity to purchase or rent the film digitally. This PVOD window is expected to commence approximately 45 days after the film’s theatrical release.
According to current projections, digital platforms where the movie will be available for purchase or rental during this PVOD stage include prominent services such as the Apple TV Store and Amazon Prime. This allows audiences who prefer digital access to watch the film relatively soon after its cinematic debut.
Anticipating the Apple TV+ Streaming Debut
Subsequent to the PVOD window, “F1: The Movie” will then become available for streaming as part of a subscription service. As an Apple Original Film, its natural and expected home for subscription streaming is Apple TV+.
The anticipated timeline for this transition places the streaming release on Apple TV+ after an additional one to two months of PVOD exclusivity. Based on this sequence, the film is likely to arrive on the Apple TV+ platform in October 2025.
It is important to note that Apple has not yet issued an official announcement regarding these specific post-theatrical release dates. The focus for Apple and Warner Bros. currently remains on the film’s ongoing performance during its theatrical engagement. Official confirmations for the PVOD and Apple TV+ dates are typically made closer to their respective rollout periods.
Strategic Significance and Industry Context
The significant budget allocated to “F1: The Movie” highlights Apple’s commitment to producing high-profile, event-level content for its streaming service, often involving strategic partnerships for theatrical distribution. The collaboration with Warner Bros. for the theatrical run leverages a major studio’s expertise in global cinema distribution, aiming to build buzz and generate significant box office revenue before the film becomes available for digital consumption.
A strong theatrical performance, as indicated by the estimated $140 million opening, not only validates the film’s potential but also contributes to its overall profitability and marketing momentum leading into subsequent windows. The structured release – theatrical, then PVOD (buy/rent), followed by subscription streaming – is a well-established model in the film industry designed to capitalize on different consumer habits and willingness to pay.
For Apple TV+, securing a high-budget, globally appealing film centered around a popular sport like Formula 1 is a key strategy in attracting and retaining subscribers in a competitive streaming landscape. The film’s eventual arrival on the service in late 2025 is poised to be a major draw for motorsports enthusiasts and general audiences alike.
While the October 2025 date for the Apple TV+ streaming premiere remains an anticipation based on typical industry windows and current reporting, the film’s journey from its high-profile theatrical launch on June 27th, 2025, through digital rental/purchase platforms, sets the stage for its eventual debut on the subscription service, bringing the high-octane world of F1 to Apple TV+ subscribers.
