Apple TV is making the Bahrain Grand Prix stream free for all users in the US this weekend — no subscription needed. Normally, Formula 1 on Apple TV requires a paid subscription, but this time the company lifted the restriction. A fun detail: the event is called the Bahrain Grand Prix, but it's actually taking place in Sepang, Malaysia.

What's free and for whom

Free access applies to viewers in the US. That means if you're in another country, the live stream may not be available without changing your account region or using other legal methods. The stream runs on the Apple TV platform (app or web player). An Apple TV+ subscription is not required — a free Apple ID is enough.

How much Apple TV+ costs and how to pay from abroad

The standard Apple TV+ subscription costs $9.99 per month (price as of October 2026; check the current rate in your region). Apple accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Apple Gift Cards. If your card was issued in a country where Apple has restricted payments, direct payment may fail.

In such cases, people use virtual cards issued in a supported region (e.g., US or Europe). The virtual card is linked to your Apple ID, and charges happen automatically. It's important that your Apple ID region matches the card's issuing country — otherwise the payment will be declined.

How to pay for Apple TV+ with a virtual card: step by step

  • Step 1. Get a virtual card in the required region (e.g., US) and top it up with the subscription amount plus a small buffer — $10–12.
  • Step 2. In your iPhone, iPad settings or on the Apple ID website, change your region to the card's issuing country. You'll need an address and phone number in that region.
  • Step 3. Add the virtual card as a payment method under 'Payment & Shipping'.
  • Step 4. Subscribe to Apple TV+. The charge will occur immediately or on the renewal date.
  • Step 5. Keep at least $10 on the card by the billing date to avoid subscription suspension.

What to do if the payment fails

The most common reasons for failure: mismatch between Apple ID region and card issuing country, insufficient funds, card blocked by the bank, or incorrect address. Check your balance, make sure the card is active and supports international online payments. If the error persists, try another virtual card or link an Apple Gift Card purchased in the correct region.

Is it worth watching the race for free

If you're in the US — just open the Apple TV app and watch. If not, free access is likely unavailable, but you can subscribe via a virtual card and watch officially. Keep in mind that viewing from another country may require changing your account region, which isn't always convenient, but there aren't many alternatives.

Service names, games, and franchises are the property of their respective owners and are mentioned only to describe the payment scenario; VirtCardPay is not affiliated with them.

FAQ

Can I watch the Bahrain Grand Prix for free outside the US?

Officially, free access is only available to viewers in the US. From other countries, a subscription or region change is required.

Which cards does Apple accept for subscription payments?

Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Apple Gift Cards. Virtual cards also work if the region matches.

How much should I keep on a virtual card for Apple TV+?

At least $10–12 with a buffer for price changes or conversion fees.

Payment guides

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Sources

This material is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. Data and service terms may change, so check primary sources before making a payment or investment decision. Mentions of third-party brands and services do not imply official partnership, support, or endorsement by VirtCardPay.
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