Has the WSOP found a mainstream broadcaster?

Will the Main Event be streamed on television again or for free on YouTube? There are hints that it might be..

The 2026 World Series of Poker schedule is not a massive departure from what we are used to. Sure, there are some fun new events, like Dealer's Choice Omaha, but it looks very much like a regular schedule for the biggest festival in poker. 

What is most interesting is what is missing from the schedule, which is two things. When will the final table take place, and where can we watch it? 

While not explicitly stated, the cat is out of the bag; we know that the final table is going to be delayed. Whether it is for a week, a month, or longer, remains to be seen. 

The only thing we know about the broadcast is that it is free on YouTube until the Main Event; after that, nothing is confirmed. PokerGO, it seems, are no longer involved, so where can we watch it? 

Why delay the final table?

First of all, excellent news on the free streams on YouTube. The WSOP can do a lot wrong for me; if they make the broadcasts free to watch, they will have my vote.

The lack of information, coupled with the final table delay, all but makes me think that we might see a mainstream broadcaster step in to show the Main Event to a large audience.

First of all, why not mention it now? It suggests to me that we have a big story where the broadcast is concerned, one which deserves its own day in the sun, rather than getting lost in the schedule announcement.

Secondly, why no PokerGO? They have the experience and the manpower ready and waiting in Las Vegas. To depart from them means the WSOP must have something special in the ranks. Also, side note, the WSOP poached Jeff Platt from PokerGO recently. 

Secondly, why the delay? Two reasons for me, at least in relation to the broadcast. First of all, it gives producers the chance to prepare something special, where we can learn more about the finalists. Secondly, because right now the WSOP Main Event final table would clash with the World Cup, and why would any broadcaster want that?

Poker needs the WSOP Main Event to be available to non-poker players. If this year we have a potential mainstream broadcaster, or better yet, just a free stream on YouTube, I can get on board with whatever kooky plans the WSOP has for a final table delay.