Summary

US fans can watch Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton’s front-row contest at Sepang for free on Apple TV. The platform’s American Formula 1 page lists Sunday’s Bahrain Grand Prix in Malaysia with a “Watch Free” option.

The Formula 1 race starts at 3am Eastern on Sunday, 4 October, equivalent to midnight Pacific. Apple’s pre-race coverage begins at 1:50am Eastern, giving viewers time to follow the build-up before the start.

What time is the race in the United States?

The Pacific coast has a date change between the beginning of coverage and the race. The programme starts on Saturday evening, but the race begins at midnight as Sunday starts.

US time zoneApple TV coverage beginsRace starts
Eastern — New York, MiamiSun 4 Oct, 1:50am EDTSun 4 Oct, 3am EDT
Central — Chicago, DallasSun 4 Oct, 12:50am CDTSun 4 Oct, 2am CDT
Mountain — DenverSat 3 Oct, 11:50pm MDTSun 4 Oct, 1am MDT
Pacific — Los Angeles, SeattleSat 3 Oct, 10:50pm PDTSun 4 Oct, midnight PDT

These are the scheduled broadcast and race starts. The race programme remains subject to changes.

How to watch the Bahrain GP free on Apple TV

Open the Apple TV app or website, find the Formula 1 section and select the Bahrain: Race listing. The US event page identifies the broadcast as free to watch.

The offer applies to this event and is separate from Apple TV’s general subscription trial. Viewers should select the race’s free viewing option rather than assume they need to begin a paid subscription or trial.

Apple TV is the streaming service carrying the broadcast; viewers do not need an Apple TV hardware box specifically. Access is through the app or website on a supported device.

This guide concerns the United States offer. Fans in other countries should consult the Bahrain GP television and streaming guide for their local broadcaster.

Verstappen starts alongside Hamilton

Verstappen secured pole position ahead of Hamilton, putting two of Formula 1’s most successful drivers together on the front row. Championship leader Antonelli starts third after Isack Hadjar’s grid penalty is applied.

Sepang’s heat and tyre degradation add uncertainty to the race. Multiple pit stops could give strategy a major role, while Mercedes is seeking a recovery after falling short of its qualifying expectations.

Sunday’s Grand Prix is scheduled for 56 laps. It marks Formula 1’s first race at Sepang since 2017, although the relocated event retains the Bahrain Grand Prix name.

Formula 1 returns this weekend, from 2–4 October, to Malaysia, which hosts the Bahrain Grand Prix. GRANDE PRÊMIO will cover all the action at Sepang.

FAQ

Is the Bahrain GP in Malaysia free to watch on Apple TV in the US?

Yes. Apple TV’s US Formula 1 page lists the race with a “Watch Free” option. This is an event-specific offer, separate from the platform’s general subscription trial.

What time does the Bahrain GP start in the US?

The race starts at 3am Eastern, 2am Central, 1am Mountain and midnight Pacific on Sunday, 4 October.

What time does Apple TV’s race coverage begin?

Coverage begins at 1:50am Eastern on Sunday, equivalent to 10:50pm Pacific on Saturday, 3 October.