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Disney motorsport media and licensing expansion

Updated 4 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-08-14 10:12 UTC → 2026-08-17 16:32 UTC · added removed

Disney and various motorsport entities are exploring expanded commercial and media partnerships. Initial discussions focused on the potential for Disney or Pixar to develop an animated Formula 1 series featuring real teams and circuits to drive merchandising and licensing revenue. Following these explorations, Disney+ secured a multi-year global streaming agreement with Formula E. Starting with the 2026/27 season, the platform will host the all-electric championship across 144 territories. In the United States, racing content will be available on both Disney+ and ESPN+. Under this landmark agreement, subscribers will gain access to every session, including practice runs, qualifying, and live races, alongside highlights, analysis, and behind-the-scenes programming. The championship noted that this digital expansion is intended to “complement, rather than replace, existing free-to-air and linear television partnerships in key markets.” For instance, in Italy, broadcasts are expected to continue on Mediaset networks to ensure free access. Formula E CEO Jeff Dodds described the deal as a “milestone” that leverages Disney’s storytelling power to accelerate global growth. The media deal coincides with the introduction of the GEN4 car, which produces over 815bhp and can accelerate from 0-60mph in approximately 1.8 seconds. The 2026/27 season will feature an expanded 21-race calendar across 13 cities, beginning in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and concluding in Tokyo, Japan. Expanding its motorsport reach, Disney has extended its partnership with Formula 1 through 2028. This collaboration, themed Unveiled at the D23 fan event in Anaheim, the expanded “Fuel the Magic,” Magic” collaboration will incorporate integrate Pixar’s “Cars” franchise alongside the existing Mickey “Mickey & Friends Friends” lineup. To mark commemorate the 20th anniversary of “Cars,” the character Lightning McQueen is scheduled to debut a new celebratory livery at the Formula 1 Gran Premio D’Italia in Monza this September.

Versions

  1. 2026-08-17 16:32 UTC Disney motorsport media and licensing expansion
  2. 2026-08-14 10:12 UTC Disney motorsport media and licensing expansion
  3. 2026-08-14 03:48 UTC Disney motorsport media and licensing expansion
  4. 2026-08-11 15:36 UTC Disney motorsport media and licensing expansion
  5. 2026-08-11 14:42 UTC Disney motorsport media and licensing expansion

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