The 2026 Masters Tournament tees off on Thursday, April 9, at Augusta National, and fans eager to catch every shot might wonder: what channel is the Masters on 2026? The answer is a combination of traditional broadcast and streaming platforms, with CBS and ESPN handling exclusive TV coverage, complemented by Amazon Prime Video and Peacock+ streaming options.
TV Coverage Split Between ESPN and CBS
For years, CBS and ESPN have shared the Masters broadcast rights, and 2026 is no exception. ESPN will air the first two rounds on Thursday and Friday, including the Masters Par 3 Contest on Wednesday. CBS takes over for the weekend, broadcasting the third and final rounds on Saturday and Sunday. This split means viewers need to switch channels mid-tournament to follow the action live.
Beyond traditional TV, Amazon Prime Video will stream early coverage on the first two days, while Peacock+ offers early streaming on the weekend rounds. This multi-platform approach reflects how golf broadcasting adapts to changing viewer habits, blending cable, broadcast, and streaming.
Masters 2026 TV Schedule at a Glance
Here’s the key schedule for those planning their viewing:
- Wednesday, April 8 (Par 3 Contest): 2-4 p.m. ET (ESPN)
- Thursday, April 9: 1-3 p.m. ET (Prime Video); 3-7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN)
- Friday, April 10: 1-3 p.m. ET (Prime Video); 3-7:30 p.m. ET (ESPN)
- Saturday, April 11: 12-2 p.m. ET (Paramount+); 2-7 p.m. ET (CBS)
- Sunday, April 12: 12-2 p.m. ET (Paramount+); 2-7 p.m. ET (CBS)
Streaming Options: How They Work and Why They Matter
If you prefer streaming, the Masters offers extensive coverage across several platforms, including Masters.com, the Masters app, ESPN and CBS apps, Amazon Prime Video, Paramount+, Peacock+, and more. These streams provide access to featured groups, specific holes, and full rounds live, often with simulcasts of the TV broadcasts.
For example, on Thursday and Friday, full round streams run from 1 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. ET on Masters.com and the app, while featured holes like Amen Corner (holes 11, 12, and 13) have dedicated streams throughout the day. This allows fans to customize their viewing experience beyond a traditional TV channel.
Why Knowing What Channel Is the Masters on 2026 Matters
With the Masters spreading its coverage across multiple channels and streaming services, knowing where to tune in is essential. Missing the channel switch between ESPN and CBS or not having access to the right streaming platform could mean missing critical moments. For golf fans, especially those following top players like Bryson DeChambeau, staying informed on where to watch ensures they don’t miss a single shot.
The Masters’ Broadcast Strategy Reflects Shifts in Golf and Media
The 2026 Masters’ TV and streaming lineup illustrates a broader trend in sports broadcasting. Combining cable networks with streaming platforms caters to a younger, tech-savvy audience without alienating traditional viewers. This hybrid model also offers more flexible viewing options, whether you want to catch the early featured groups or the weekend’s final rounds.
For golf equipment enthusiasts or those interested in golf tips, this means more chances to see how pros approach different holes and adjust their gear and strategy live. Plus, with detailed hole-by-hole streaming, fans can analyze course strategy and player decisions in ways not possible with conventional broadcasts.
What to Watch Next: The Par 3 Contest and Early Rounds
The Masters Par 3 Contest on Wednesday, April 8, kicks off the week at 2-4 p.m. ET on ESPN and is a great appetizer before the main event. Early streaming coverage starts even earlier with practice rounds and warm-ups on Masters.com and the app. Pay attention as the tournament unfolds on different platforms—this will be key to catching all the drama leading into the weekend when CBS takes over.
Knowing what channel is the Masters on 2026 and where to stream the action ensures you’ll be front and center for the week’s best golf moments. For a broader view, explore our coverage of golf majors coverage and results.
Source: according to Golf.com
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