Millions of fans around the world will experience The Open in more personalised, immersive and accessible ways than ever before thanks to a range of new digital innovations and enhanced broadcast coverage for this year’s championship at Royal Birkdale (12–19 July).
From a redesigned official app and an all-new Fantasy game to enhanced live streaming, dedicated player coverage and expanded global television coverage, The R&A is using the latest technology to bring fans closer to the shots, stories and moments as the world’s best players compete to become Champion Golfer of the Year and lift the famous Claret Jug.
Live television coverage will be available through 35 broadcast partners across more than 200 countries and territories, with more than 48 hours of world feed coverage complemented by Featured Groups, The Open Radio and the return of Live at the Range, providing behind-the-scenes access, player interviews and expert analysis throughout Championship week.
New for this year is a dedicated Player Focus feed, allowing fans to follow a selected player more closely each day, while two new original productions – the Last Chance Qualifier and the Heroes Classic – will be provided through highlights and social coverage enabling fresh ways for audiences to engage with golf’s original Championship.
A new free-to-play Fantasy game, developed by Genius Sports and presented by Mastercard, will be available exclusively to One Club members through the enhanced Open App. Fans can select three players from four categories, make transfers after the cut, compete for daily prizes and create private leagues with family and friends. The overall winner will receive a destination package to attend The 155th Open at St Andrews in 2027.
Neil Armit, Chief Commercial Officer at The R&A, said, “The Open is our greatest opportunity each year to inspire people through an outstanding Championship and bring fans worldwide closer than ever to the action of one of the world’s greatest sporting events. By continually evolving how fans experience the Championship, we’re making it more accessible than ever before.
“Whether they’re walking the fairways at Royal Birkdale or following events from the other side of the world, these new digital innovations and enhanced broadcast coverage will help millions of people feel closer to the players, the stories and the unique spirit of The Open.”