Shane Lowry Leads Irish Open 2026: Weekend TV and Stream Guide

Shane Lowry has positioned himself as the man to beat at the 2026 Irish Open, heading into the weekend rounds with a three-shot advantage. The 2009 champion delivered a masterclass during Friday's second round at Trump International Golf Links Ireland, carding a course-record 62 to surge to the top of the leaderboard.

While Lowry flourished, his compatriot and defending champion Rory McIlroy faced a more difficult path through the Doonbeg links. The tournament features a high-caliber field including Jon Rahm, Brooks Koepka, and Bob MacIntyre, all chasing the Irishman as the event moves into its decisive stages. For fans looking to follow the action, the broadcast schedule shifts for the Saturday and Sunday sessions. More reporting is available in A Complete Guide to Creating, Trading, and Streaming on Pump Fun.

Weekend Broadcast Schedule and Times

According to reporting by Radio Times, UK viewers can access live coverage through Sky Sports and NOW. The broadcast windows for the final two days are split between different channels to accommodate the full field and the leaders' tee times.

On Saturday, September 12, live coverage begins at 2:30pm UK time on Sky Sports+. For those watching the evening finish, the broadcast moves to Sky Sports Golf starting at 6:00pm.

Sunday’s final round, scheduled for September 13, begins earlier. Viewers can tune in to Sky Sports+ from 1:30pm, with the concluding action and trophy presentation airing on Sky Sports Golf from 5:00pm. These staggered start times ensure that early starters are captured before the focus shifts to the final pairings featuring Lowry and his closest challengers.

Digital Access and Platform Mechanics

For readers who prefer to watch Irish Open 2026 Shane Lowry lead via digital platforms, the service mechanics depend on the specific subscription tier chosen. According to the Radio Times report, Sky Sports customers can utilize the Sky Go application, which is included in their standard subscription. This app allows for streaming on smartphones and tablets, provided the user has their account credentials active.

Alternatively, the NOW platform offers a non-contract route for viewers. The service operates through two primary tiers: a Day Membership priced at £14.99 or a Month Membership at £34.99. These memberships grant access to the same Sky Sports Golf and Main Event feeds found on traditional satellite TV. The NOW app is compatible with most smart TVs, gaming consoles, and mobile devices. Users should verify their internet connection stability, as live sports streaming requires consistent bandwidth to maintain high-definition quality during the fast-paced play at Doonbeg.

The Challenge at Trump International Doonbeg

The venue for the 2026 Irish Open, Trump International Golf Links Ireland, has proven to be a volatile test for the world's best players. Lowry’s record-breaking 62 on Friday highlighted his comfort on links courses, a skill set he famously used to win the Open Championship. However, the coastal winds at Doonbeg can shift rapidly, making a three-shot lead vulnerable.

Lowry is seeking his second Irish Open title, nearly two decades after his historic win as an amateur at County Louth. The presence of major winners like Jon Rahm and Brooks Koepka in the chasing pack ensures that the weekend will require aggressive play rather than defensive course management. Fans should monitor local weather reports, as significant wind changes often lead to adjusted tee times or delays in play.

Subscription Options and Costs

Accessing the full weekend of golf involves several pricing structures depending on the provider. As of September 12, 2026, Sky offers a sports-specific add-on for £20 per month for existing TV customers. A broader package that includes Netflix and the complete sports suite is available for £35 per month.

For those without a long-term contract, the NOW Day Membership is the most direct way to watch the final round on Sunday without committing to a monthly fee. It is important to note that these prices are based on current reporting and may vary based on regional promotions or hardware requirements. Viewers are encouraged to check their specific provider's app compatibility before the leaders tee off on Saturday afternoon.