PGA Tour May Opt Out of TV Contracts to Start New Network
We could see a major shift in the PGA Tour’s TV coverage within the next few years.
The PGA Tour‘s contract with TV networks such as CBS and NBC will expire in 2018, a reality that’s been known for a while. However, according to the Sports Business Journal, the Tour may opt out sooner rather than later, and the higher-ups have already been in talks with other major networks for a possible new deal.
This may entail the PGA Tour getting its own TV network. If this comes to fruition, professional golf will join the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL as a league with its own dedicated network.
CBS and NBC hold the rights to over 30 PGA Tour events until 2021, but the Tour can opt out much sooner than that. Although the Golf Channel is a dedicated TV location for the sport, it would be great if the PGA Tour could get its own network too.
At any rate, Golf Channel would actually need to be included in the deal if the Tour wants its own network. This is largely because the Golf Channel has the right to broadcast some events on the LPGA, Web.com and Champions Tours.
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Having all the tours incorporated into the new network would give it a lot more meat on its bones. In a world where content is so important, it would best to have access to all the tours.
While a PGA Tour network sounds like a fun idea, some may ask if professional golf is deserving of its own network yet. But given the game’s rise in popularity, the slew of different topics that can be covered (players, courses, travel, etc.) and the ever-growing number of wacky characters, I think it would be fitting.
I’d definitely give it some time first — let’s wait and see where the pro game is by around 2019. In the meantime, just enjoy the coverage that Golf Channel continues to put out.
But a PGA Tour network would definitely be a lot of fun. The Tour already has a radio network on Sirius/XM, which puts out terrific coverage.
A PGA Tour TV network would bring out reporters and broadcasters who love the game of golf. Not that Golf Channel doesn’t, but a network dedicated to the tour could help golf coverage soar to new heights.
Again, it’s best to give it some time, which the Tour will do, and let the game continue to evolve. But when the time is right, a move to a dedicated network would be great for the sport of golf.
What are your thoughts on the PGA Tour getting its own TV network sooner rather than later? Do you think there should be a network at all? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.
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