Formula 1's revenue in the first quarter increased by 53%

      Liberty Media has published its financial report for the first quarter of 2026, which shows that Formula 1 revenue increased by 53%. Revenue from January to March rose from $403 million to $617 million, while operating profit was $107 million compared to a loss of $28 million in the same period last year. The difference at Liberty Media was explained by the fact that in 2025, there were only two races in Australia and China during the first quarter, compared to three in 2026, when a race in Japan was added to the two aforementioned. Additionally, the cancellation of the April races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia affected the distribution of Formula 1's seasonal revenue. Some revenue, such as from broadcasting rights, sponsors, and long-term contracts, is accounted for proportionally to the number of races in the season. Last year, the calendar had 24 events, and by the end of March, only two had taken place, so a small portion of seasonal revenue was included in the first-quarter reporting. This year, after reducing the calendar to 22 races, three events had already occurred by the end of March, resulting in a significantly higher revenue figure for the first quarter in the financial report. The fact that Liberty Media presented such figures may indicate that the company is likely not seriously considering rescheduling the canceled races later in the season. Liberty Media added that Formula 1's revenue grew "thanks to one additional race in the quarter, a higher proportional accounting share of seasonal revenue, and an increase in contractual payments. Revenue from media rights sales and sponsorship also increased due to the impact of calendar changes on the calculation of seasonal revenue." Other Formula 1 revenues in the first quarter primarily grew due to increased ticket sales in the Paddock Club, the introduction of new premium offerings for guests, as well as income from transportation and logistics related to the additional event. Furthermore, the growth in other revenues is linked to an increase in licensing fees and the development of the Grand Prix Plaza project in Las Vegas. Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1: "The season has started with very exciting events both on and off the track. We have seen more overtakes and incredibly close battles right from the start of the season. We continue to see positive momentum across the business. Our collaboration with Apple in the U.S. has successfully launched, our long-term agreement with our partners at Sky has been extended, and new commercial partnerships have begun, including with Standard Chartered and Marsh. We remain focused on further developing the sport and strengthening connections with fans around the world, as well as working together with the FIA and teams to make racing even more exciting. We strive to ensure competitive racing and continue our leading development in the industry."