How to use a VPN to watch Formula 1

If you’re a Formula One fan, you’ll already know exactly which subscriptions you need to watch the 2025 F1 season unfold. But did you know that a VPN is the perfect extra to keep you streaming Grand Prix races, no matter where you go?

If you're on holiday, away with work or visiting friends and family abroad, you'll likely find your regular F1 streaming services geo-blocked but a VPN can fix that for you.

What is a VPN?

A VPN, which stands for virtual private network, is a tool that both reroutes your internet traffic through a server based in a different location, and encrypts your data.

There’s a lot to unpack there, but with regards to streaming specifically, a VPN can unlock access to your geo-blocked service when you're trying to stream your F1 coverage from abroad. The software makes it appear that you're physically back home.

What streaming services can VPNs unblock?

It’s as good as magic. You can use a VPNs with Sky Go, Sling TV, Kayo Sports and many more streaming services, such as Netflix, Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, Disney Plus, Max, DAZN and Peacock too.

What else are VPNs good for?

In addition to helping you get around geo-restrictions, VPNs anonymize your internet browsing data by encrypting it, preventing cybercriminals, websites, advertisers, internet service providers (ISP) and governments from tracking your online activities.

Furthermore, in some cases, VPNs can boost your connection speeds. That’s because some ISPs deliberately throttle speeds, in order to get customers to upgrade to more expensive plans – think sandbagging in F1.

Rerouting and anonymizing your web traffic can help you get the most out of the service you pay for.

Which VPNs work for F1 streaming?

Most VPNs will work when you're looking to access your usual content from abroad but the four below are some of the very best VPNs we've tested.

If you're tempted by a free VPN, do bear in mind that they come with data caps which usually aren'y enough to stream a whole F1 race weekend. Paid VPNs come with unlimited data and are really the only way to go.

1. NordVPN – from $3.09 per month
The best VPN overall
NordVPN is an awesome pick for streamers and works like a charm with all of today's most popular platforms. So, whether you're catching up on Netflix originals or tuning in to live soccer, it'll have your back. There's no need to spend a fortune on a NordVPN subscription, either, especially if you take advantage of its 2-year subscription discount. Check it today, risk-free, with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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2. ExpressVPN – from $4.99 per month
The best VPN for beginners
ExpressVPN is my number-one pick for VPN newbies. It's incredibly easy to use and set up, which means you'll spend more time checking out what's new on BBC iPlayer and Amazon Prime, and less time tweaking your settings. ExpressVPN is fast enough to handle 4K and HD streaming, too, and its 2-year plan is the cheapest it's ever been. See for yourself with its 30-day money-back guarantee.

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3. Surfshark – from $2.19 per month
The best cheap VPN (and also the fastest)
Surfshark delivers premium VPN features at a budget-friendly price, proving that top-tier security and performance don’t have to break the bank. Despite its affordability, Surfshark offers high-quality service with unlimited simultaneous connections, a vast global server network, and seamless access to geo-restricted content. Whether you're streaming, browsing, or securing your online privacy, Surfshark ensures a fast and reliable experience. Plus, with a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, you can try it out with complete confidence.

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