YouTube TV is shaking up the sports streaming landscape with a new sports-focused subscription plan set to launch in early 2026, and it could be big news for golf fans. Under the new offering, YouTube TV will include major sports networks, including Golf Channel, and streaming access to PGA Tour Live, giving subscribers broader access to golf coverage and other top sports content without the full cost of a traditional cable bundle.
The announcement signals a major shift in how live sports content is packaged and sold, especially as fans increasingly look for alternatives to expensive cable subscriptions. It also comes at a time when sports broadcasting rights and streaming options are rapidly evolving, with providers vying to offer the most comprehensive but affordable access to live games and events.
What YouTube TV’s Sports Plan Includes
YouTube TV’s upcoming sports-specific plan will feature a range of major networks familiar to sports fans. According to the company’s official announcement, the package will include channels such as FS1, NBC Sports Network, all ESPN networks, and more–with optional add-ons like NFL Sunday Ticket and RedZone available.
Importantly for golf followers, the plan also brings in Golf Channel, a must-have network for coverage of PGA Tour, LPGA, and other professional golf events. That means subscribers could access day-long tournament coverage, news shows and featured golf programming without needing the full traditional TV bundle most providers require.
According to Golfweek, “Golf Channel will remain the official cable broadcast partner of the PGA Tour through 2030 and access to ESPN Unlimited means this new bundle will also include PGA Tour Live, TGL and extra coverage of the Masters.”
While details on pricing have not yet been revealed, YouTube TV says the sports plan will be available below the cost of its current base plan (around $82 per month), making specialized sports access a little more affordable for many viewers.
Recent Dispute Highlighted Streaming Frustrations
The announcement of YouTube TV’s new sports-focused plan comes shortly after a high-profile carriage dispute with Disney, the parent company of ESPN. The disagreement resulted in ESPN and several affiliated networks being temporarily removed from YouTube TV, sparking widespread frustration among sports fans across the country.
The timing of the blackout only intensified the backlash. The dispute stretched across 15 days during peak football season, leaving subscribers without access to major college football games, NFL coverage, and other live sports programming. Many users took to social media to voice concerns, questioning the reliability of streaming services when it comes to must-watch live events.
Ultimately, the two sides reached an agreement on Nov. 14, restoring ESPN and its related channels to YouTube TV’s lineup. While financial details were not disclosed, the resolution allowed subscribers to regain access before the most critical stretch of the sports calendar.
YouTube TV took to social media after the dispute, saying, “We’re happy to share that we’ve reached a deal with Disney to bring their content back to YouTube TV. Subscribers should see channels including ABC, ESPN, and FX returning to their service over the course of the day. Thanks for your patience and for being a valued member.”
That dispute appears to have helped shape YouTube TV’s broader strategy moving forward. By introducing a dedicated sports plan, the platform may be aiming to reduce friction around channel access while giving sports fans clearer, more direct options.
“This new agreement reflects our continued commitment to delivering exceptional entertainment and evolving with how audiences choose to watch,’’ Disney Entertainment Co-Chairmen Alan Bergman and Dana Walden and ESPN Chairman Jimmy Pitaro said. “It recognizes the tremendous value of Disney’s programming and provides YouTube TV subscribers with more flexibility and choice. We are pleased that our networks have been restored in time for fans to enjoy the many great programming options this weekend, including college football.”
Like Heavy Sports’s content? Be sure to follow us.
This article was originally published on Heavy Sports
The post YouTube TV Unveils New Sports Plan Featuring Golf Coverage appeared first on Heavy Sports.