Liberty Media’s F1, crazy numbers
Today the usual call of Liberty Media took place to communicate the financial and operational results for the first quarter of 2026. Derek Chang, president and CEO of Liberty Media, commented on F1: “Formula 1 continues to demonstrate the strength of its global platform, with a growing audience and increasingly intense fan engagement, generating strong demand across all commercial areas.” As usual, the category’s primary revenues come from race hosting fees, media rights, and sponsorships.
In the quarter, F1 revenues increased by 53% to 617 million dollars, operating profit was 107 million dollars, and adjusted OIBDA rose by 102% to 172 million dollars.
Read more Audi fears the tariff increase threatened by Trump
Formula 1 is undoubtedly financially healthy and enjoys strong demand from fans, deep interest from commercial partners, very interesting dynamics for media rights, and a solid long-term foundation given by the Concorde Agreement.
Domenicali’s analysis
F1 president Stefano Domenicali answered questions received during the conference call. Here are the most significant points of his analysis: “The 2026 season started excitingly, kicking off this new chapter in Formula 1 history with new regulations, new teams, and new podium presences. Congratulations to Kimi Antonelli, the youngest driver ever to lead the championship. The first 4 races were sold out, social engagement is up compared to last year, and early TV data shows a growing global audience. Market research among fans indicates a very positive response to the on-track spectacle, with particular appreciation for the action, race battles, and overtakes.”
Read more Nissan ARIYA MY26, limited edition not for Italy
And more: “To date, we have welcomed 1.3 million spectators on track, Australia set a new attendance record. The Paddock Club has already sold out for almost all races of the 2026 season, with over 65 thousand tickets sold. To meet demand, we will expand the Paddock Club capacity at Silverstone, Austin, and Monza.
TV audiences in our top markets are up compared to last year, thanks to strong growth in key markets like Brazil, Italy, and China. In Brazil, we returned to free-to-air broadcasting, in China we have broader coverage, while in Italy we recorded a +25% increase in viewers thanks to excellent performances by Ferrari and Kimi Antonelli.”
The list of F1 successes is long, Domenicali continues: “Our YouTube content generated nearly 600 million views during the Japanese GP, +46% compared to 2025. On social media, we increased our following by 20% year-on-year, reaching over 120 million followers. The first three races recorded a higher average audience than last year and our fans are watching races for longer periods, with an increase in total viewing hours compared to 2025. Despite such growth, we believe we are only at the beginning of what is possible with F1. The momentum we are seeing across all activities continues at an extraordinary pace, and the foundations we are building today will create lasting value for our partners, shareholders, and fans, also for years to come.”, explained the Formula 1 president.
Click here to add Formula Passion as a preferred source on Google Discover: you will find our content more easily!
Read more Alfa Romeo Junior, the range evolves
