Apple Maps adds detailed F1 experience ahead of 2026 season

The 2026 F1 season begins next month, and it’s Apple’s first season with exclusive streaming rights in the United States on Apple TV. In celebration of the kickoff, Apple has added a gorgeous new Apple Maps experience for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Australian Grand Prix 2026 — with more to come.

In Apple Maps, F1 fans can browse detailed circuit maps with things like turn numbers, grandstands, and even a 3D landmark of the F1 Pit Garage. For people attending the Australian Grand Prix in person, the Apple Maps experience also makes it easier to get around and follow directions.

Grand Prix Elements include realistic kerbs, labeled 3D grandstands and footbridges, and all 14 turns marked on the circuit. Pop-Up Locations show race entrance gates, amenities like restrooms, water stations, first aid, and merchandise stands, plus walking directions to your grandstand. 3D Grand Prix Circuit Landmarks depict key structures around Albert Park, including the Pit Building, grandstands, Lakeside Stadium, the Melbourne Sports & Aquatic Centre, and the Finish Line. 3D Melbourne Landmarks cover city points of interest like AAMI Park, Eureka Tower, Luna Park, Marvel Stadium, Rod Laver Arena, the Royal Exhibition Building, the Shrine of Remembrance, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Apple Maps will add details for more races around the world throughout the rest of the year. There is also a new 2026 Formula 1 Tracks Around the World Guide directly in Apple Maps with information about all twenty-four Grand Prix circuits.

Starting this year, Apple TV subscribers can stream all F1 races at no extra charge. This integration between Apple Maps and Formula 1 represents a significant enhancement for motorsports fans, combining Apple's mapping technology with the excitement of F1 racing. The detailed 3D models and comprehensive navigation features transform how fans experience races both at home and in person.

The timing is particularly strategic as Apple TV+ secures exclusive streaming rights for F1 in the US market. By enhancing Apple Maps with F1-specific features, Apple creates a more immersive ecosystem for racing fans who are likely to subscribe to its streaming service. This cross-platform integration demonstrates Apple's approach to building value across its services and software offerings.

For attendees of Grand Prix events, the practical navigation features could prove invaluable. The ability to locate specific grandstands, amenities, and navigate the circuit grounds with detailed 3D landmarks addresses common pain points for race attendees. The inclusion of walking directions to specific grandstands and clear labeling of facilities like restrooms and first aid stations shows attention to the real-world needs of spectators.

The 3D modeling of circuit elements like kerbs, grandstands, and the Pit Garage adds an educational and entertainment dimension for fans watching from home. These visual details help viewers better understand the track layout and appreciate the challenges drivers face during races. The comprehensive coverage of Melbourne landmarks also serves casual visitors to the city, making the feature useful beyond just race attendees.

As the season progresses, the expansion to other Grand Prix circuits worldwide will create a consistent experience for F1 fans regardless of which race they're following. The centralized "Tracks Around the World Guide" provides a convenient reference for the entire F1 calendar, potentially becoming a go-to resource for fans planning their race-viewing or travel schedules.

This enhancement to Apple Maps represents a broader trend of specialized mapping experiences for major events and interests. By creating tailored map experiences for specific use cases like Formula 1 racing, Apple demonstrates how mapping technology can evolve beyond basic navigation to become an integral part of how we experience and engage with our interests and passions.