F1 viewership in the US hits new peak with Chinese Grand Prix setting unprecedented records

Formula 1 continues its relentless surge in popularity, particularly in the United States, as the 2025 Chinese Grand Prix shattered viewership records. ESPN recorded an impressive 824,000 viewers, a remarkable feat given the race's 3 AM ET start time. This significant milestone underscores F1's growing foothold in the U.S., fueled by Netflix’s Drive to Survive and the electrifying competition on track.

At the Shanghai International Circuit, Oscar Piastri delivered a standout performance, securing his first win of the season in front of a record-breaking 220,000 spectators—a 10% increase from last year. The broadcast witnessed a peak of 967,000 viewers, reflecting a staggering 31.6% rise compared to the previous season’s race. This surge mirrors the overall viewership growth seen at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, which drew 1.11 million viewers. The first two races of 2025 have experienced an unprecedented 65% increase in audience engagement compared to 2024.

The growing 18-49 demographic—which constitutes 39% of the total viewership—has been a game-changer for F1. Unlike traditional motorsports, Formula 1 has mastered the art of engaging younger audiences through social media, a strategy largely credited to Drive to Survive’s storytelling appeal.
The United States has emerged as a dominant force in Formula 1’s commercial growth. Since 2018, F1 merchandise sales have soared over 1,000%, with American fans leading the charge. Illinois, Arizona, and New York have notably become hotspots for F1 merchandise purchases, further highlighting the sport’s mainstream acceptance.
With three U.S. races on the calendar, including the much-anticipated Miami Grand Prix on May 4—which saw a record 3.1 million viewers last year—F1’s American expansion shows no signs of slowing down. However, a major shakeup looms as ESPN’s contract with Formula 1 expires at the end of the season. The battle for broadcast rights is heating up, with Netflix and NBC emerging as potential contenders. Given Netflix's growing investment in live sports, a deal with F1 could revolutionize the sport's U.S. media presence.
Formula 1’s success starkly contrasts with the struggles faced by IndyCar and NASCAR. While F1 set viewership records in China, IndyCar's head-to-head slot against NASCAR on Fox saw it struggle for attention. Meanwhile, F1’s viewership for the Chinese Grand Prix has surged nearly 200% since 2018, when only 284,000 viewers tuned in.
Also Read: Updated F1 championship standings after triple disqualifications at China GP shake up the 2025 title race
As the 2025 season progresses, Formula 1’s meteoric rise in the U.S. remains a testament to the sport’s evolving appeal, fueled by strategic marketing, thrilling competition, and an ever-growing American fanbase. The question now is: who will win the battle for F1’s U.S. broadcasting rights, and how will it shape the future of the sport?