2018 Masters to be Broadcast on Sky Sports and BBC

Following months of speculation, Sky Sports has confirmed that it has extended its association with the Masters, ensuring that the 2018 Tournament will be showcased on both Sky and the BBC, who have retained live coverage over the Saturday and Sunday of the iconic first men’s major of the year.

Last summer – days after launching a dedicated Sky Sports Golf Channel – it had been widely reported that talks between the network and representatives of the Augusta National Golf Club had broken down, leading to potential interest from rival company BT Sport. Sky’s misery was compounded by a collapse in its relationship with the PGA of America, which led to the PGA Championship being broadcast on the BBC in a hastily planned coverage.

Barney Francis, Sky Sports Managing Director said: "This is fantastic news and our viewers can look forward to another special week at Augusta National. The Masters is a magical event played on a magnificent golf course.

"I believe our award-winning coverage and dedicated golf channel will give the best platform for a memorable tournament as part of a tremendous year of golf on Sky Sports."

Having first shown the Masters in 2011, Sky Sports will return with comprehensive programming from Georgia, including the Par 3 Contest and all four Tournament Days live. Retaining a long-standing arrangement, the BBC will continue to have live coverage from the third and fourth rounds, in addition to highlights from the opening two days of Sergio Garcia’s defence of the Green Jacket.

It has also been reported in The Daily Telegraph that Sky is confident of regaining the live rights to the PGA Championship, ensuring that the four majors will be restored on their channels during a packed season that also includes the Ryder Cup from Le Golf National in September.

Many golfers without a Sky subscription regret the absence of live coverage from The Open Championship on free-to-air television, but with this dual arrangement, viewers can either relish the award-winning coverage from Sky Sports or enjoy the accessibility of the BBC. Ultimately, it’s good news for all parties, and excitement will now build towards that drive down Magnolia Lane in April.