Behind the Numbers: an EMARKETER Podcast artwork

Formula One’s American Takeover: Will Brands Race Into F1 or Hit the Brakes? | In the Game

Behind the Numbers: an EMARKETER Podcast · with Ross Benes and Blake Droesch · March 17, 2026 · 28 min

Summary

Formula One has rapidly grown its American fanbase, driven by factors like the "Drive to Survive" series and increased US races. This episode explores whether this surge is sustainable or a temporary hype cycle, and critically examines the unique value proposition F1 offers to brands seeking to connect with a global, affluent, and engaged audience. It delves into how brands can effectively leverage F1 for marketing and brand building.

Key takeaways

Themes

brand & contentdtc strategyanalytics & attribution

Topics covered

f1 sponsorship roisports marketing trendsbrand association with luxuryexperiential marketing strategiesaudience demographics f1 usaglobal brand building

Episode description

On today’s podcast episode, we discuss what’s been driving Formula One’s growth in America, whether F1 has finally broken through in the US or if we’re in a temporary hype cycle, and what brands get from the sport that they can’t get anywhere else. Join Senior Director of Podcasts and host Marcus Johnson, along with Senior Analysts Ross Benes and Blake Droesch. Listen everywhere, and watch on YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to EMARKETER's newsletters. Go to https://www.emarketer.com/newsletters Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/emarketer/ For sponsorship opportunities, contact us: advertising@emarketer.com For more information, visit: https://www.emarketer.com/advertise/ Have questions or just want to say hi? Drop us a line at podcast@emarketer.com For a transcript of this episode, click here: https://www.emarketer.com/content/podcast-formula-one-s-american-takeover-will-brands-race-f1-hit-brakes-game © 2026 EMARKETER Rokt helps marketers reach high-intent customers in the Transaction Moment™—when they’re actively completing a purchase online. Powered by AI and first-party data, Rokt Ads connects your brand with over 400 million global shoppers and delivers outcomes you can count on. Learn more at rokt.com/emarketer to get started today.

Related episodes

Frequently asked about this episode

What does this episode say about brand & content?
Evaluate F1 sponsorships beyond traditional sports metrics, focusing on engagement with its global, affluent, and tech-savvy audience.
What does this episode say about dtc strategy?
Leverage F1's associated narratives, particularly those amplified by shows like "Drive to Survive," to craft compelling brand stories and experiential marketing campaigns.
What does this episode say about analytics & attribution?
Consider the demographic shifts within F1's American fanbase, which leans younger and more diverse, when tailoring marketing messages and product offerings.
What does this episode say about brand & content?
Explore opportunities for global brand building through F1, leveraging its international appeal and association with luxury and high performance.
What does this episode say about brand & content?
Analyze the long-term sustainability of F1's US growth and tailor investment strategies to mitigate risks associated with a potential "hype cycle."

Listen