World Series of Poker Returns to ESPN with New Multi-Year Agreement

The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is set to return to ESPN in a significant multi-year agreement, marking the first time since 2021 that the network will broadcast the prestigious Main Event. Coverage will commence on July 2, 2026, and will feature over 100 hours of programming, culminating in a live finale from August 3 to 5. This partnership aims to reignite interest in poker by showcasing the tournament's human drama and excitement.

ESPN To Broadcast WSOP Main Event Live In AugustWSOP Main Event to air live on ESPN as final table dates revealedESPNBREAKING: The WSOP Main Event is BACK on ESPNLas Vegas Review JournalWorld Series of Poker returning to ESPNESPN and World Series of Poker reach multi-year agreement to bring Main Event back to ESPN beginning this summer

The new deal includes a "cliffhanger" format, where the tournament will pause after the final table is determined on July 13, allowing for a 20-day break before the final showdown. During this hiatus, ESPN will air specially curated episodes to build anticipation for the final table. Each tournament day will feature a minimum of six hours of programming, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the event.

Las Vegas Review Journal

ESPN has a long-standing relationship with the WSOP, having first broadcast the Main Event in 1987. The network's coverage played a pivotal role in the poker boom of the early 2000s, particularly following Chris Moneymaker's 2003 victory, which inspired a new generation of players. The return to ESPN is seen as a revival of this legacy, aiming to connect with both longtime fans and new audiences.

World Series of Poker returning to ESPN

Ty Stewart, CEO of the WSOP, emphasized the significance of this partnership, stating, “Returning to ESPN — the home of our most iconic moments since 1987 — allows us to showcase the human drama of the Main Event like never before.” Ashley O’Connor, ESPN's Vice President of Programming and Acquisitions, echoed this sentiment, noting, “We’re excited to showcase the intensity and unpredictability of this tournament across our platforms.”

WSOP Main Event to air live on ESPN as final table dates revealed

While the return of the WSOP to ESPN has been largely welcomed, some critics recall the previous "November Nine" format, which faced backlash for its lengthy delays. The new 20-day break is a compromise, but it remains to be seen how audiences will react to this structure compared to past formats.

ESPN To Broadcast WSOP Main Event Live In August

The WSOP will kick off on July 2, 2026, with Day 1A of the Main Event. The final table will be broadcast live from August 3 to 5, with programming designed to engage viewers and build excitement around the tournament's conclusion.

BREAKING: The WSOP Main Event is BACK on ESPN

• “ Said Ty Stewart, CEO of the WSOP: “No pair beats ESPN and the World Series of Poker.” — Ty Stewart, CEO of WSOP

ESPN and World Series of Poker reach multi-year agreement to bring Main Event back to ESPN beginning this summer

• “Poker is filled with unexpected storylines, and nobody is better equipped to showcase the stories that unfold throughout a tournament more than ESPN.” — Ashley O’Connor, VP of Programming & Acquisitions, ESPN

Las Vegas Review Journal

• “The World Series of Poker is a global phenomenon that transcends the gaming category, and our goal is to bring it to the widest possible audience,” — Ty Stewart, CEO of WSOP

BREAKING: The WSOP Main Event is BACK on ESPN

This new chapter for the WSOP on ESPN aims to blend nostalgia with modern storytelling, potentially shaping the future of poker broadcasting.

World Series of Poker returning to ESPN