Turnberry and the Open Championship: Logistical Challenges Prevent Return
The famous Turnberry golf course, owned by Donald Trump, will not host the Open Championship in the near future. This was confirmed by Mark Darbon, the new CEO of the R&A, who emphasized that the obstacles are mainly logistical, rather than political. Turnberry, considered one of the most beautiful courses in the Open rotation, located on the coast of Ayrshire, Scotland, last hosted the tournament in 2009, before Trump acquired the resort. Darbon explained that Turnberry has not been excluded from the list of possible venues, but that challenges related to transport and infrastructure must be addressed.The R&A’s chief executive noted that they met with Eric Trump and other Trump Golf leaders a few months ago, and the conversations were constructive. According to Darbon, there is a clear understanding of the situation and they are working on an open dialogue. Previously, Martin Slumbers, former director of the R&A, had indicated that Turnberry would not be considered as a venue until the main focus was golf, and not the owner’s figure. The Turnberry course has hosted the Open Championship four times, including the iconic “Duel in the Sun” of 1977, where Tom Watson defeated Jack Nicklaus. However, the event’s growth and access limitations at Turnberry pose significant challenges. Speculation has arisen about the possibility of Trump requesting the British government to intervene so that the Open returns to Turnberry. Darbon stated that they maintain a constant dialogue with the UK government, given the economic value generated by the event. However, he emphasized that the decision on the championship venue rests exclusively with the R&A. In addition to Turnberry, Muirfield, another renowned Scottish course, also faces challenges to be considered as a venue for the Open. Muirfield, renowned for its tradition and purity, has hosted the Open on 16 occasions, the most recent in 2013, with Phil Mickelson’s victory. Only St. Andrews has hosted more Opens than Muirfield. The R&A is focused on selecting courses that can accommodate large crowds. Royal Portrush is expected to receive 278,000 spectators this week, surpassed only by St. Andrews. The last Open at Muirfield had 142,000 attendees. The Open will be held at Royal Birkdale next year and at St. Andrews in 2027. The venue for 2028 has not yet been announced. Muirfield, historically, has not exceeded 11 years between events, with exceptions due to the world wars. Darbon indicated that they are in talks with Muirfield, but that improvements are required, especially in the practice area, to adapt to the demands of a modern Open. Despite the challenges, there is a positive dialogue with the hope of returning to Muirfield in the future.We love the golf course, but we have great logistical challenges there.
Mark Darbon, CEO of the R&A
