The 2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational is set to begin this week at Arnold Palmer’s Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando, Florida, with a $20 million purse and $4 million awarded to the winner. The tournament, a Signature Event on the PGA Tour, will feature the top players in the world, including World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler and World No. 2 Rory McIlroy.
Scheffler, a two-time champion at Bay Hill, enters the tournament in strong form, having not finished outside the top 12 in any event this season. McIlroy, the 2018 winner, finished second at the Genesis Invitational earlier this season, his second PGA Tour event of the year. The field includes every winner from the 2026 season so far, highlighting the significance of the event as players prepare for the Masters Tournament.
Justin Thomas will make his season debut at the Arnold Palmer Invitational after recovering from back surgery. His last competitive rounds were at the 2025 Ryder Cup. Defending champion Russell Henley will also return, seeking to repeat his 2025 victory at Bay Hill, where he finished at 11 under par.
Television coverage of the tournament will be provided by NBC and Golf Channel. PGA Tour Live on ESPN+ will offer streaming coverage, including featured group and featured hole coverage throughout the rounds. Peacock will also simulcast NBC’s coverage.
The tournament schedule is as follows: Thursday, March 5th, and Friday, March 6th will have coverage from 2-6 p.m. ET on Golf Channel. Saturday, March 7th will feature coverage from 12:30-2:30 p.m. ET on Golf Channel and 2:30-6 p.m. ET on NBC. The final round on Sunday, March 8th, will be broadcast from 12:30-2:30 p.m. ET on Golf Channel and 2:30-6 p.m. ET on NBC.
Online, PGA Tour Live on ESPN+ will provide exclusive early coverage beginning at 7:30 a.m. ET on Thursday and Friday, and 9 a.m. ET on Saturday and Sunday. NBC’s coverage can also be streamed on Peacock.
The Arnold Palmer Invitational has a rich history, with Tiger Woods winning the event six times between 2000 and 2013. Other past champions include Rory McIlroy, Jason Day, and Ernie Els. The tournament, established in 1979, has become a signature event on the PGA Tour, known for its challenging course and prestigious field.
Bay Hill Club & Lodge, owned by the Arnold Palmer estate, will host the event. The course, measuring 7,466 yards, is expected to play firm and quick due to the dry and warm forecast, adding to the challenge for players.
