Full Breakdown
Amazon Prime Video Joins Masters Tournament Broadcast Lineup in 2026
9/16/2025, 9:51:02 PM
Expanded Coverage for Golf's Premier Event
Starting in 2026, Amazon Prime Video will become a domestic broadcaster for the Masters Tournament, providing an additional two hours of live coverage during the first and second rounds. This new partnership will complement existing broadcasts by CBS Sports and ESPN. The Masters is scheduled to take place from April 9 to April 12, 2026, at Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Georgia. Prime Video's coverage will air from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. ET on April 9 and 10, leading into ESPN's coverage from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ET on both days. CBS will continue to handle the weekend broadcasts from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. ET, preceded by streaming coverage on Paramount+ from noon to 2 p.m. ET.
Historical Context of Masters Coverage
The Masters Tournament has a long-standing tradition of limited television coverage, primarily to enhance its exclusivity and appeal. CBS has been the primary broadcaster since 1956, with ESPN joining in 2008 to cover the early rounds. The addition of Amazon Prime Video marks a significant shift in the tournament's broadcasting strategy, allowing for more comprehensive coverage and catering to the increasing demand for golf content.
Official Statements on the Partnership
Fred Ridley, chairman of Augusta National Golf Club, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Working alongside Amazon in this capacity is an exciting opportunity for the Masters Tournament and its fans. We are proud of our longstanding partnerships with CBS Sports and ESPN, who have set the highest standard for broadcast coverage of the Masters. The addition of Amazon will only further our abilities to expand and enhance how the Tournament is presented and enjoyed.” Jay Marine, head of Prime Video for U.S. and Global Sports, echoed this sentiment, saying, “It’s an honor for all of us at Amazon to become a broadcast partner of the Masters Tournament and to provide fans additional hours of live coverage of this treasured event.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the expansion of coverage has been largely welcomed, some critics have voiced concerns regarding the increasing commercialization of sports broadcasting. The shift towards streaming services like Amazon Prime Video raises questions about accessibility and the potential for additional costs for viewers. One commentator noted, “I am so sick and tired of these sports leagues and streaming services taking advantage of our hard-earned dollar.”
What's Next for Masters Coverage
As the 2026 Masters approaches, further details regarding the coverage and potential innovations from Amazon Prime Video are expected to be announced. This partnership not only enhances the viewing experience for golf fans but also reflects a broader trend of streaming services securing rights to major sporting events, thereby reshaping the landscape of sports broadcasting.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Working alongside Amazon in this capacity is an exciting opportunity for the Masters Tournament and its fans.” — Fred Ridley, Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club
- “It's an honor for all of us at Amazon to become a broadcast partner of the Masters Tournament and to provide fans additional hours of live coverage of this treasured event.” — Jay Marine, Head of Prime Video U.S. and Global Sports
This new agreement signifies a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Masters Tournament's broadcast strategy, promising to enhance fan engagement and accessibility to one of golf's most prestigious events.
