5 Best VPNs to Watch F1 Races Live Online (Tested in 2024)

Lucca RF
Last Updated by Lucca RF on December 25, 2023 Fact-checked by Justyn Newman Fact-checked by Justyn Newman

Formula 1 isn’t available in many countries due to broadcasting rights and geo-restrictions. This means you may not be able to watch each Grand Prix if you’re in any such country.

While you may still be able to catch up on your races with a VPN, doing so could be considered copyright infringement. My team and I don’t condone breaking the law to watch F1 races with a VPN.

If you’re in a country where F1 is available and want to watch races with a VPN, I recommend ExpressVPN. It has the fastest speeds for lag-free streaming and servers worldwide. Also, it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. This means you can try ExpressVPN completely risk-free to stream F1 races lag-free.

Quick Guide: Best VPNs for F1 in 2024

  1. ExpressVPN — The best VPN for streaming F1 with the fastest speeds, wide server availability, and a simple app. Watch Formula 1 2024 with ExpressVPN.
  2. Cyberghost — Optimized servers for streaming F1, but not as fast as ExpressVPN.
  3. Private Internet Access — Huge network of servers worldwide, but doesn’t work with some regional streaming platforms.
  4. NordVPN — Fast, stable connections for F1 streaming platforms but only has a handful of obfuscated servers.
  5. Surfshark — Supports unlimited devices, but doesn’t display server metrics while connected to a server.

Stream with ExpressVPN

Important! Neither I nor my team condone copyright infringement. The VPNs recommended here have no-logs policies and won’t monitor your online actions. It’s solely up to you to use your VPN responsibly and not break the Terms of Service of any Formula-1 broadcasters.

The Best VPNs to Watch Formula 1 Lag-Free in 2024

1. ExpressVPN — Excellent Speeds for Buffer-Free F1 Live Streams

Key Features:

  • 3,000+ servers in 105 countries
  • Unlimited bandwidth ensures excellent speeds
  • Connect up to 8 devices simultaneously
  • 24/7 customer support over live chat and email
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

ExpressVPN is the fastest VPN for lag-free Grand Prix live streams. I experienced consistent speeds on every server, even ones over 15,000km away. In fact, ExpressVPN only caused an impressive 22% speed drop from Canada to a Melbourne server, allowing for smooth F1 live streams.

Screenshot of ExpressVPN speed tests showing servers in the US, UK, Australia, and Germany
ExpressVPN’s fast speeds are great for live streaming in HD quality

In my testing, ExpressVPN worked with multiple F1 streaming platforms, as well as platforms like Netflix, which has F1-related content like Drive to Survive. Some of these include:

ESPN DAZN Channel 8 Italy Fox Sports beIN SPORTS Sky (Germany, Italy, NZ, UK)
Servus TV Foxtel Sport Klub Eurosport C4 SportKlub
Hulu + Live TV YouTube TV Sling TV fuboTV Kayo Sports 10play

It’s easy connect to the best available server in any country using ExpressVPN’s app. Simply double-click on a country and you’re automatically connected to the fastest server. Alternatively, you can click on the green power button and ExpressVPN will connect you to the best server near your location.

I prefer to watch F1 on my TV, so to use a VPN on a smart TV, I set up ExpressVPN’s MediaStreamer feature. It also works on other devices without native support (like PlayStation and Xbox). This is essentially a Smart DNS service that connects you to a US-based DNS server — just keep in mind that this feature doesn’t encrypt your internet traffic.

When it comes to security, ExpressVPN also offers the following features to keep your device secure while streaming:

  • AES 256-bit encryption — keeps your connection secure at all times.
  • Kill switch — automatically blocks your internet if the VPN connection drops.
  • TrustedServer technology — uses RAM-based servers so data is never written to a disk.
  • Leak protection — stops potentially identifying data from being visible to any third parties.
  • Audited no-log policy — ensures none of your traffic information is stored.

It’s worth noting that ExpressVPN is the most expensive VPN on this list. Thankfully, you can get 49% off with the best-value 1-year + 3 months plan starting at $6.67 a month. It’s also the most reliable VPN I’ve tested, making it well worth the slightly higher monthly cost in my opinion.

Every ExpressVPN plan is backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee, giving you plenty of time to test every feature for yourself. I found the refund process very easy. After requesting my money back through the 24/7 live chat, the support agent processed my refund in under 5 minutes. The money was in my account 3 days later.

ExpressVPN works on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Chromebook, Raspberry Pi, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Android Smart TV, Apple TV, and more.

2024 Update! ExpressVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $6.67 per month for the 1-year plan + 3 months free (you can save up to 49%)! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.

2. CyberGhost — Watch Formula 1 on Dedicated Servers for Streaming

Key Features:

  • 11,800+ servers in 100 countries
  • Optimized streaming servers for reliable F1 playback
  • Stream on up to 7 devices at the same time
  • 24/7 live chat and email support
  • 45-day money-back guarantee

CyberGhost has servers optimized for the best possible speeds and performance based on your activity, so you won’t have to worry about poor video quality when you’re watching a big race. The app has a dedicated selection of optimized servers for specific streaming platforms under the “For streaming” tab. However, its regular servers also work with these channels — they’re just a bit slower.

Screenshot of CyberGhost VPN review streaming option

CyberGhost’s optimized servers are pre-configured to work with streaming channels

You can find optimized servers for a number of platforms that carry Formula 1 as well as other popular services, including:

ESPN Channel 4 YouTube TV Eurosport Hotstar ORF
Hulu + Live TV DAZN Channel 8 Italy Fox Sports beIN SPORTS Hulu

Alongside streaming capabilities, it also takes device security seriously, including the following features:

  • Military-grade encryption — secures your connection and traffic.
  • Automatic kill switch — disconnects internet access if the VPN drops out.
  • “NoSpy” servers — give more privacy and security for your data and VPN traffic.
  • Leak protection — stops DNS and IP leaks.
  • Ad and malware blocker — stops intrusive and dangerous ads.

Its apps cover all the major platforms — including PC, Mac, Android, and iOS — as well as many other devices. This means you can enjoy seamless F1 streaming whether you’re at home or traveling. Like ExpressVPN, CyberGhost also offers a Smart DNS tool so you can connect on devices without native VPN support.

The only downside is that CyberGhost was noticeably slower than ExpressVPN when connected to distant servers. It also took longer to establish a working connection. While by no means a dealbreaker — and still perfectly able to stream UHD F1 content — you may want to consider this if you want the fastest VPN.

CyberGhost’s most affordable offering is the 2-year + 4 months subscription, at just $2.03 per month. This competitive pricing makes it an attractive choice for those seeking a budget-friendly VPN solution, especially for watching the 2024 F1 season.

If you’d like to see if CyberGhost is the right F1-streaming VPN for you, you can try it risk-free with its 45-day money-back guarantee. I tested this by requesting a refund through the 24/7 live chat. It took under 5 minutes from connecting to the chat to the customer support representative approving my request, and I had the money back in 7 days.

CyberGhost works on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Chromebook, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Android Smart TV, Apple TV, and more.

2024 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 84%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.

3. Private Internet Access — Large Server Network Minimizes Congestion to Watch F1 Races Lag-Free

Key Features:

  • 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
  • Customizable encryption levels for increased speed or security
  • Stream from up to unlimited devices simultaneously
  • 24/7 live chat and email support
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Boasting a robust server network with 35,000+ servers in 91 countries, Private Internet Access (PIA) lets you stream F1 lag-free. While many of its servers are in the US, it still provides a diverse network spread across Europe, Asia Pacific, and Africa, ensuring you’re never far from a fast server.

Screenshot of Formula 1 streaming on ServusTV with PIA connected

PIA’s large server network provides a congestion-free network for smooth F1 streams

PIA’s large server network also leads to reliable performance, speed, and stability, ensuring a great F1 streaming experience, regardless of where you’re connecting from. Here are some of the platforms you can enjoy with PIA:

ESPN Channel 4 YouTube TV Eurosport Hotstar ORF
Hulu + Live TV DAZN Channel 8 Italy Fox Sports beIN SPORTS Hulu

When it comes to security, PIA also keeps you safe while watching the latest race by offering:

  • AES 256-bit encryption — for a secure connection.
  • Automatic kill switch — to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops.
  • MACE ad and malware blocker — to provide a cleaner browsing experience.
  • Multiple VPN gateways — for flexible connection options.
  • Audited no-logs policy — ensures your data isn’t stored or shared.

In fact, with its advanced configuration options, PIA allows for a highly personalized VPN experience. This flexibility lets you fine-tune your VPN usage, optimizing it to suit your streaming and security needs.

Unfortunately, PIA is US-based — within the jurisdiction of the 5 Eyes intelligence alliance. However, potential concerns about government surveillance are mitigated by its independently audited no-logs policy. PIA has also upheld its promise to user privacy in real-world legal cases, demonstrating a commitment to protecting users.

Offering one of the most competitively priced monthly VPN plans, PIA’s 2-year + 4 months subscription comes in at just $2.03 per month. If you’re seeking a premium VPN that won’t break the bank, PIA is an attractive option.

With a 30-day money-back guarantee, you can check out PIA’s capabilities risk-free. I tested this policy and found the refund process to be straightforward. After a brief conversation with their live chat support team, my refund request was approved and the funds returned to my account within a week.

PIA works on: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS, Linux, Chromebook, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Android Smart TV, Apple TV, and more.

2024 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as $2.03 per month + get an extra 4 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 83%)! This is a limited offer, so grab it now before it's gone! See more information on this offer here!

4. NordVPN — Reliable & Fast Servers for Uninterrupted F1 Streams

Key Features:

  • 6,300+ servers in 110 countries
  • Supports up to 10 simultaneous connections
  • 24/7 customer support via live chat and email
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

NordVPN’s fast and stable connections enhance your F1 streaming experience. In my tests, it dropped just 19.4% on average from my baseline speeds, ensuring I could always connect to a high-speed server near each location, minimizing lag and buffering.

Some of the F1 broadcasters you can stream with NordVPN include:

ESPN Channel 4 YouTube TV Eurosport Hotstar ORF
Hulu + Live TV DAZN Channel 8 Italy Fox Sports beIN SPORTS Hulu

NordVPN also ensures a secure F1 streaming experience with the following security features:

  • AES 256-bit encryption — for a secure, encrypted connection.
  • Double VPN — for an added layer of privacy, encrypting your data twice.
  • CyberSec — blocks ads, malicious sites, and botnet control.
  • Automatic kill switch — prevents data leaks if the VPN connection drops.
  • Strict no-logs policy — to ensure your data isn’t stored or shared.

While NordVPN has obfuscated servers that mask VPN traffic as regular data, they’re limited in number. The scarcity of obfuscated servers in NordVPN’s roster may sometimes hinder access to this feature.

Although NordVPN is the second-most expensive VPN on this list, it offers a competitive 2-year + 3 months subscription at $3.09 per month. Considering its high-speed servers and the convenience of SmartPlay technology, it represents great value for money.

NordVPN also comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to test its features risk-free. During my tests, I found the refund process simple and straightforward. After a quick conversation with their customer service, my refund request was approved, and I had my money back in just a week.

NordVPN works on: Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS, Windows Phone, Chromebook, Linux, Chrome, Firefox, Fire Stick, Android TV, and more.

5. Surfshark — Stream F1 Races on All Your Devices at Once

Key Features:

  • 3,200+ servers in 100 countries
  • Supports unlimited simultaneous connections
  • Whitelisted and NoBorders mode for optimized streaming and browsing
  • 24/7 live chat and email support
  • 30-day money-back guarantee

Setting Surfshark apart is its unlimited device connections. This allows you to enjoy F1 races on your laptop, smartphone, and smart TV simultaneously — removing the hassle of having to log in and out of your devices once the limit is reached.

Surfshark’s speeds make it great for streaming, ensuring a smooth F1 experience. With an average download speed of just 21% lower than my baseline, Surfshark delivered consistent, buffer-free F1 races from multiple platforms.

When it comes to streaming platforms, Surfshark works with plenty of F1 broadcasters, including:

ESPN Channel 4 YouTube TV Eurosport Hotstar ORF

Surfshark also boasts robust security features:

  • AES-256-GCM encryption — for strong network security.
  • Automatic kill switch — to keep your data safe in case of a sudden disconnect.
  • MultiHop — for an extra layer of privacy by connecting via two different servers.
  • Private DNS on each server — to ensure your data isn’t leaking.
  • Strict no-logs policy — ensuring your data is not stored or shared.

One minor inconvenience is that you can’t see the speed metrics for servers while you’re already connected to a server. This makes it harder to switch to a faster server without disconnecting first. Fortunately, disconnecting doesn’t take long, but it would be a nice feature to have.

Surfshark offers an affordable 2-year + 2 months plan at just $2.29 per month. Regardless of the plan, it offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. I tested this policy, and the refund process was hassle-free and fast. After a brief conversation with a support agent, my refund request was approved, and I had the funds back in a week.

Surfshark works on: Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS, Linux, Fire Stick, Samsung Smart TVs, LG Smart TVs, Android TV, Kodi, selected routers, and more.

Comparison Table: 2024’s Best VPNs for Watching Formula 1

Server

Number

Server

Countries

Device

Limit

Lowest

Monthly

Price

Money-Back Guarantee
ExpressVPN 3,000 105 8 $6.67 30 days
CyberGhost 11,800 100 7 $2.03 45 days
PIA 35,000 91 unlimited $2.03 30 days
NordVPN 6,300 110 10 $3.09 30 days
Surfshark 3,200 100 unlimited $2.29 30 days

How I Tested and Ranked the Best VPNs for Streaming F1

I tested all the leading VPNs in 2024 against the following criteria:

  • High-speed servers — so you can stream F1 races in up to UHD quality.
  • Global server network — ensuring ample connection choice and low latency for uninterrupted F1 streaming.
  • Device compatibility — guarantees support for various devices including PC, Mac, Android, and iOS.
  • Strong privacy and security — including features like top-tier encryption and a strict no-logs policy.
  • Ease of use — by way of a user-friendly interface, making each VPN accessible for all user levels.
  • Customer support — preferably provides 24/7 live chat and email assistance for swift resolution of any technical issues.
  • Money-back guarantee — to allow for risk-free testing of each VPN service.

Where to Watch F1 Live Streams Online (Updated in 2024)

Free-to-Air Channels

You can watch the 2024 F1 for free in the below countries:

Country Platform Commentary Language
Albania RTSH Albanian
Australia  10Play English
Austria  ORF Eins or Servus TV German
Belgium RBTF French
Brazil  Band Portuguese
France  C8 French
Luxembourg RTL Zwee French
Mexico Canal 5 Spanish
Netherlands NOS Dutch
Singapore Channel 5 English
Spain Mediaset English
UK & Ireland Channel 4 English
United States ABC English

Subscription and Cable Services

Country Platform Free Trial Commentary Language
Australia Foxtel English
Canada TSN English or French
France Canal+ French
Germany Sky Sport F1 German
India Star Sports Select English
Italy Sky Sport F1 Italian
Japan DAZN Japanese
New Zealand Spark Sport English
UK & Ireland Sky Sports F1 English
United States ESPN English

Jump to the full list of countries broadcasting the F1 in 2024.

3 Easy Steps: How to Watch the F1 With a VPN in 2024

  1. Get a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN as it offers excellent speeds for smooth F1 streams. Try ExpressVPN risk-free.
  2. Connect to a server. I recommend connecting to the server nearest to your location for the best speeds.
  3. Watch the F1! Enjoy watching the entire F1 2024 season.

FAQs: Best VPNs for Watching F1 Races

What VPN works with F1?

Not all VPNs are created equal, but I’ve tested 30+ and shortlisted the best VPNs for every Grand Prix of the 2024 season. The #1 VPN for F1 is ExpressVPN has the fastest speeds of any other VPN tested, making it great for UHD live streams. It also has 3,000+ servers in 105 countries that work with most F1 streaming platforms.

Why do I need a VPN to watch F1?

A VPN offers an added layer of security when you’re watching F1 on public Wi-Fi and other unsecured networks by encrypting your data. This is crucial, as public networks are often vulnerable to cyber threats.

Some ISPs limit your bandwidth when they detect streaming, leading to a laggy and frustrating viewing experience. A VPN prevents your ISP from detecting that you’re streaming and throttling your speeds.

Can I use a VPN with F1 TV Pro?

Maybe. FOM (Formula One Management) has recently begun to crack down on VPNs, and many fans are reporting that even the best VPNs for F1 TV Pro aren’t working anymore. That being said, it’s worth reaching out to your VPN provider’s customer support to see if they can help you find a server that works.

Can I watch Formula 1 on Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime?

Formula 1 isn’t available on Netflix or Amazon Prime, but you can watch with Hulu’s Live TV add-on. The closest option with the other 2 services is to watch the Formula 1: Drive to Survive documentary series on Netflix. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video don’t have access due to a lack of licensing deals. 

What can I do if my VPN isn’t working with F1 TV?

There are several troubleshooting steps you can take to get your VPN working with F1 TV:

Change VPN servers: If one server doesn’t work, try connecting to another one in the same country.

Clear your browser cache: Your device stores information that websites use to identify your location. Clear your browser cache to ensure your location isn’t being identified from past sessions.

Contact VPN customer support: Most top-tier VPN services offer customer support. If you’re still having issues, they can provide assistance or suggest a server that works with F1 TV.

If you’re consistently having issues, consider switching to a VPN known for its streaming capabilities.

Is it legal to watch Formula 1 with a VPN?

Yes, it’s legal to use a VPN to watch Formula 1, as VPNs are legal tools in most countries. They provide privacy and security measures for your internet connection, which is entirely within your rights as an internet user.

However, it’s worth noting that using a VPN to access geo-restricted content might violate the terms of service of the streaming provider. These providers may attempt to block VPNs as they breach their licensing agreements which are often geographically based.

Which countries broadcast the 2024 Formula 1?

You can check out the best free-to-air channels broadcasting the F1 in 2024, or see the full list of F1 broadcasters (including subscription-only channels) below:

  • Africa — SuperSport, ESPN
  • Albania — RTSH
  • Armenia — Vivaro Sports
  • Australia — Fox Sports, Network Ten
  • Austria — Servus TV, Sky Sport
  • Azerbaijan — AzTV, Idman Azerbaycan
  • Belgium — RTBF, Telenet
  • Bosnia — Sport Klub
  • Brazil — Bandeirantes, ESPN Brasil
  • Bulgaria — Nova, Diema Sport
  • Canada — RDS, TSN
  • China — Great Sports TV, Tencent Sports
  • Croatia — Sport Klub
  • Cyprus — Cytavision
  • Czech Republic and Slovakia — AMC Sport 2, Nova Sport 2
  • Denmark — TV3+, Viaplay Denmark
  • Estonia — Viaplay Estonia
  • Eurasia — Setanta Sports Eurasia+, Setanta Sports Eurasia HD2+
  • Finland — Viaplay Finland, V Sport Motor Finland HD+
  • France — Canal+, C8 HD+
  • Germany — Sky Deutschland HD+, RTL Television HD+
  • Greece — ERT HD+, Cosmote Sport 2 HD+
  • Hong Kong — Now TV Hong Kong HD+, Fox Sports Hong Kong HD+
  • Hungary — M4 Sport HD+, Spíler 2 TV HD+
  • Iceland — Viaplay Iceland+
  • India — Star Sports Select 2, Disney+ Hotstar VIP/Premium
  • Indonesia — Vidio.com, Champions TV
  • Israel — The Sports Channel
  • Italy and San Marino — Sky Italia, Sky Sport Uno
  • Japan — Fuji Television Network, DAZN Japan
  • Kosovo — RTK
  • Latin America (excluding Brazil) and the Caribbean Islands (excluding Puerto Rico) — ESPN Latin America, Fox Sports Latin America
  • Latvia and Lithuania — Viaplay Latvia/Lithuania+
  • Luxembourg and Liechtenstein — RTL Télé Lëtzebuerg, RTL Zwee
  • Macedonia — Sport Klub
  • Malaysia and Brunei — Astro Sports Malaysia/Brunei
  • Malta — Go Sports Malta
  • Montenegro — SportKlub Montenegro
  • Myanmar — Canal+ Myanmar FG
  • Netherlands — Ziggo Sport, Ziggo Sport Totaal
  • New Zealand — Spark Sport New Zealand
  • Norway — V Sport 1 Norway, Viaplay Norway
  • Papua New Guinea and Pacific Islands — TVWAN Sports Papua New Guinea/Pacific Islands
  • Philippines — Tap DMV Philippines
  • Poland — Eleven Sports Poland, Polsat Sport Premium 1 Poland
  • Portugal — Sport TV Portugal, Eleven Sports Portugal
  • Romania — Digisport Romania, Telekom Romania
  • Russia — Match TV Russia
  • Serbia — SportKlub Serbia
  • Singapore — Singtel Singapore, StarHub Singapore
  • Slovenia — SportKlub Slovenia
  • Spain and Andorra — F1 DAZN Spain and Andorra, Movistar+ Spain and Andorra
  • Sweden — Viaplay Sweden, V Sport Motor Sweden
  • Switzerland — SRF Switzerland, RSI Switzerland
  • Taipei — Videoland Taipei
  • Thailand — True Visions Thailand
  • Turkey — S Sport Turkey, S Sport Plus Turkey
  • Ukraine — Setanta Ukraine
  • UK and Ireland — C4 UK and Ireland, Sky Sports UK and Ireland
  • US (including Puerto Rico) — ESPN US, ABC US
  • Vietnam — K+ Vietnam

Can I use a free VPN to watch F1?

While a few good free VPNs exist, it’s important to be aware of their limitations and potential risks. Free VPNs typically offer a reduced service compared to their paid counterparts, which can hinder your streaming experience.

Common restrictions of free VPNs include data or speed limits and a limited number of servers. These limits often result in a terrible streaming experience. Many free VPNs even use these restrictions to encourage users to upgrade to their paid plans.

However, the biggest concern with free VPNs is the risk they pose to your online security. Some free VPNs have been reported to inject malware into devices or collect and sell user data to third parties. Given these risks, it’s wise to prioritize your online security and privacy by picking a reputable paid VPN service for streaming F1.

Don’t Miss Out on a Moment of the 2024 F1

If you want to use a VPN to securely stream the Formula-1 races, you don’t have many options. As I found out through extensive testing, only a handful of VPNs can actually support buffer-free F1 streams on multiple services.

ExpressVPN offers impressive speed, superior streaming quality, and works with most F1 streaming services.

Even better, you can test ExpressVPN with your favorite F1 channel for yourself. If you’re not 100% satisfied, you’re entitled to a full refund within 30 days of purchase. When I tested the process myself, no one hassled me to keep my subscription and I had the money returned to me within 3 business days.


Summary — Watch F1 Races Now With These VPNs in 2024

Top Ranked Top Choice
ExpressVPN
$6.67 / month Save 49%
CyberGhost VPN
$2.03 / month Save 84%
Private Internet Access
$2.03 / month Save 83%
NordVPN
$3.09 / month Save 76%
Surfshark
$2.29 / month Save 85%
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