Formula 1 racing is a global phenomenon, but accessing live streams of every Grand Prix can be tricky depending on your location. Broadcasting rights, geo-restrictions, and even ISP throttling can interfere with your ability to watch the races. This guide explains how to use a VPN to watch F1 live streams securely and reliably in 2025, no matter where you are.
Why Use a VPN to Watch F1?
There are several key reasons to use a VPN when streaming Formula 1:
- Bypass Geo-Restrictions: Many streaming services, including official F1 broadcasters, restrict access based on your location. A VPN allows you to connect to a server in a country where the stream is available, effectively unblocking the content.
- Access Free Streams: Some countries offer free, legal F1 streams. A VPN lets you connect to a server in those locations and access these broadcasts.
- Avoid ISP Throttling: Some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) may throttle (slow down) your connection speed when they detect high-bandwidth activities like streaming. A VPN encrypts your traffic, making it harder for your ISP to identify and throttle your F1 streams.
- Enhanced Privacy and Security: A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, protecting your data from potential eavesdropping, especially on public Wi-Fi networks.
- Potentially Improve Connection Quality: In some cases, connecting to a VPN server closer to the streaming service’s servers can actually improve your connection speed and reduce buffering.
Top VPNs for Streaming F1
While many VPNs claim to unblock F1 streams, consistent performance and fast speeds are crucial. Based on our testing, these are our top recommendations:
1. NordVPN: The Best Overall Choice for F1
NordVPN consistently delivers exceptional speeds with its NordLynx protocol, making it perfect for buffer-free F1 streaming in high definition. Its vast server network (over 6,400 servers in 111 countries) ensures you’ll find a server in the location you need. NordVPN also has a strong track record of unblocking a wide range of streaming services.
- Pros: Blazing-fast speeds, excellent for streaming; large server network; strong security and privacy; user-friendly apps.
- Cons: The map interface can be a little clunky on mobile.
2. Surfshark: Excellent Value and Unlimited Devices
Surfshark is a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on performance. It offers excellent speeds with the WireGuard protocol and, crucially, allows unlimited simultaneous connections. This means you can stream F1 on your TV, laptop, phone, and other devices all at the same time, under one subscription.
- Pros: Affordable pricing; unlimited simultaneous connections; fast speeds with WireGuard; strong security; user-friendly apps.
- Cons: Smaller server network than NordVPN.
Read our full Surfshark review
How to Watch F1 with a VPN: Step-by-Step
Watching F1 with a VPN is straightforward. Here’s a general guide:
- Choose a VPN Provider: We recommend NordVPN or Surfshark for their speed, reliability, and streaming capabilities.
- Sign Up and Download: Visit the VPN provider’s website, sign up for a subscription, and download the appropriate app for your device (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, smart TV, etc.).
- Install and Log In: Install the VPN app and log in using your account credentials.
- Choose a Server Location: This is the crucial step. Select a VPN server in a country where the F1 stream you want to watch is available. For example:
- F1 TV Pro: Connect to a server in a country where F1 TV Pro is offered (check the F1 TV website for the latest list).
- Free Streams (e.g., ServusTV, ORF, RTBF): Connect to a server in the broadcaster’s country (e.g., Austria for ServusTV and ORF, Belgium for RTBF).
- ESPN+, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, YouTube TV, DIRECTV STREAM: Connect to a server in the USA.
- Sky Sports: Connect to a server in the UK or Ireland.
- Kayo Sports: Connect to a server in Australia.
- TSN+: Connect to a server in Canada.
- Sky Deutschland: Connect to server in Germany
- Viaplay: Connect to a server in Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, or Sweden.
- Connect to the VPN Server: Click the “Connect” button in the VPN app.
- Access the Streaming Service: Go to the website or app of the streaming service (e.g., F1 TV Pro, ESPN+, ServusTV) and start watching the F1 race.
Important Note: Always check the terms of service of both the VPN provider and the streaming service. While using a VPN is generally legal, circumventing geo-restrictions may violate the terms of service of some streaming platforms.
2025 F1 Grand Prix: Streaming Options
Here’s a breakdown of some popular ways to watch F1 in 2025, both paid and free:
Paid Streaming Services
| Provider | Location | Price (USD) | Notes |
| F1 TV Pro | 100+ countries | $3.49 – $10.99/month | Official F1 streaming service. Offers live races, replays, onboard cameras, and more. Availability varies by country. |
| ESPN+ | USA | From $11.99/month | Includes F1 races as part of a broader sports package. |
| Hulu + Live TV | USA | From $82.99/month | Includes F1 (via ESPN channels) and a wide range of other live TV channels. |
| Sling TV | USA | From $23.00/month | Offers F1 races through ESPN and ESPN 2. More affordable than some other live TV streaming services. |
| YouTube TV | USA | From $69.99/month | Includes F1 (via ESPN channels) and a wide range of other live TV channels. |
| DIRECTV STREAM | USA | From $86.99/month | Includes F1 (via ESPN channels) and a comprehensive selection of live TV channels. |
| Sky Sports | UK & Ireland | From $24.82/month* | Dedicated F1 channel with extensive coverage. |
| Kayo Sports | Australia | From $15.53/month* | Offers F1 races and a variety of other sports. |
| TSN+ | Canada | From $5.52/month* | Includes F1 races as part of a broader sports package. |
| Sky Deutschland | Germany | From $25.94/month* | Offers Formula 1, Bundesliga, golf, tennis, ice hockey, Moto GP. |
| Viaplay | Various European Countries | From $17.63/month* | Offers Formula 1, Bundesliga, PDC Darts, football, soccer, Damallsvenskan (Sweden), Matchroom snooker and pool, KSW MMA, and Premier League. |
Price conversions are approximate and may fluctuate.
Free (and Legal) F1 Streams
Several broadcasters offer free, legal streams of F1 races, but these are typically restricted to viewers within their respective countries. You’ll need a VPN to access these if you’re located elsewhere.
| Channel | Location | Notes |
| ABC | USA | Formula 1, football, basketball, hockey, baseball, extreme sports |
| Channel 4 | UK | Formula 1, soccer, rugby, cricket, horse racing, winter sports |
| ServusTV / ORF | Austria | Broadcasts F1 races live and for free. You’ll need to connect to an Austrian VPN server. |
| RTBF | Belgium | Broadcasts F1 races live and for free. Connect to a Belgian VPN server. |
| RTL | Germany | Formula 1, soccer, tennis, handball, winter sports |
| RTL Télé Lëtzebuerg | Luxembourg | Formula 1, soccer, basketball, handball, tennis, volleyball, cycling, e-sports |
| RTS / SRF / RSI | Switzerland | Formula 1, motorbike, hockey, tennis, athletics, soccer, cycling, basketball |
Tip for English Commentary: If you’re watching a free stream in a language you don’t understand, you can often listen to BBC Radio 5 Live’s coverage of the Grand Prix online. Mute the video stream and listen to the English commentary.
2025 F1 Race Schedule
Here’s the complete 2025 Formula 1 Grand Prix schedule:
| DATE | COUNTRY | VENUE |
| March 14–16 | Australia | Melbourne |
| March 21–23 | China | Shanghai |
| April 4–6 | Japan | Suzuka |
| April 11–13 | Bahrain | Sakhir |
| April 18–20 | Saudi Arabia | Jeddah |
| May 2–4 | USA | Miami |
| May 16–18 | Italy | Imola |
| May 23–25 | Monaco | Monaco |
| May 30–June 1 | Spain | Barcelona |
| June 13–15 | Canada | Montreal |
| June 27–29 | Austria | Spielberg |
| July 4–6 | UK | Silverstone |
| July 25–27 | Belgium | Spa |
| August 1–3 | Hungary | Budapest |
| August 29–31 | Netherlands | Zandvoort |
| September 5–7 | Italy | Monza |
| September 19–21 | Azerbaijan | Baku |
| October 3–5 | Singapore | Singapore |
| October 17–19 | USA | Austin |
| October 24–26 | Mexico | Mexico City |
| November 7–9 | Brazil | Sao Paulo |
| November 20–22 | USA | Las Vegas |
| November 28–30 | Qatar | Lusail |
| December 5–7 | Abu Dhabi | Yas Marina |
Troubleshooting Streaming Issues
If you’re having trouble accessing F1 streams with a VPN, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Try a Different Server: The server you’re connected to might be blocked or experiencing issues.
- Clear Your Browser Cache and Cookies: Websites can sometimes store information that reveals your true location.
- Switch VPN Protocols: Experiment with different protocols (WireGuard, OpenVPN, IKEv2) in your VPN app’s settings.
- Contact VPN Support: Your VPN provider’s support team can often provide specific guidance for unblocking streaming services.
- Check for VPN software updates: Make sure you are using the latest version.
- Troubleshooting VPN Issues
Conclusion
With a reliable VPN like NordVPN or Surfshark, you can enjoy the thrill of Formula 1 racing from anywhere in the world. Bypass geo-restrictions, access free streams, and protect your privacy while you watch every turn, overtake, and pit stop.
Ready to experience F1 without borders? Get started with one of our top-rated VPNs today!