Amgen Irish Open set for Trump-owned course in 2026 DP World Tour

The 2026 Amgen Irish Open and its new location

The 2026 DP World Tour schedule brings a historic change as the Amgen Irish Open is set to be played at Donald Trump’s Trump International Golf Links Ireland in Doonbeg. This marks the first time the prestigious Irish Open will be hosted at a Trump-owned course, adding a fresh layer of excitement and attention to the event.

The tournament is scheduled for 10-13 September 2026 and will feature top global golfing talent competing on the challenging coastal links course. The venue is renowned for its stunning views and demanding layout, promising an enthralling contest for players and fans alike.

Record-breaking DP World Tour schedule and prize fund

The 2026 Race to Dubai season will be the largest yet, with at least 42 events distributed across 25 countries worldwide. The total prize fund, excluding majors, will reach an unprecedented $157.5 million (£116 million), reflecting the growing stature and global reach of the tour.

This expansion underlines the DP World Tour's commitment to offering players diverse locations and challenging courses. From the traditional European venues to emerging golf markets, the tour's geographic spread offers something for every fan and competitor.

New events and notable tournaments

Alongside the Irish Open’s new home, the 2026 schedule introduces the Estrella Damm Catalunya Championship in Barcelona, marking the start of the European Swing in May. This event takes place at Real Club de Golf El Prat, a course steeped in history and set to play a key role ahead of Spain hosting the 2031 Ryder Cup.

Additionally, the PGA Tour’s Corales Puntacana Championship in the Dominican Republic joins the Race to Dubai for the first time, highlighting the tour’s increasing international collaboration.

Trump-owned courses gaining prominence in professional golf

Trump International Golf Links Ireland is not the only Trump-owned venue making headlines. The Trump International Golf Links in Aberdeen hosted the Nexo Championship in 2025, while the Blue Monster course at Trump National Doral is returning to the PGA Tour calendar in 2026 for the Miami Championship after a decade-long absence.

These high-profile events at Trump properties reflect the appeal and quality of these courses, which combine challenging play with world-class facilities.

Key Rolex Series events and season highlights

The five Rolex Series events remain a cornerstone of the DP World Tour’s calendar. The 2026 season kicks off with the Hero Dubai Desert Classic in January and includes the Genesis Scottish Open in July, co-sanctioned with the PGA Tour. These tournaments attract the world’s best golfers and offer significant ranking points and prize money.

The BMW PGA Championship will take place from 17-20 September 2026, shifting a week later than in 2025, maintaining its status as one of the tour’s most prestigious events.

Season finale and membership changes

The Race to Dubai champion will be crowned following the Abu Dhabi Championship and the DP World Tour Championship in November 2026. These events are crucial for players battling for the top spots in the rankings.

Notably, the DP World Tour will tighten membership criteria for 2027: only the top 100 players in the Race to Dubai rankings will retain full membership, a reduction from previous years. Furthermore, only the top 15 players in the 2026 HotelPlanner Tour standings will earn their DP World Tour cards, raising the competitive stakes.

Global appeal and strategic growth of the DP World Tour

Guy Kinnings, DP World Tour’s Chief Executive, emphasises the global nature of the schedule: “Our 2026 schedule once again showcases our global talent in global destinations as we celebrate the diversity of the courses and cultures we visit.”

The tour’s structure, featuring the five Global Swings, the Back 9, and the DP World Tour Play-Offs, provides a compelling narrative throughout the season. This format encourages consistent performance and highlights historic national Opens with enduring appeal.

Why location matters in professional golf tournaments

Golf tournaments thrive not only on the quality of players but also on the location and course characteristics. Hosting the Irish Open at Trump International Golf Links Ireland introduces a unique coastal links style that tests players’ shot-making and adaptability.

Locations like Barcelona’s Real Club de Golf El Prat bring cultural vibrancy and strategic importance, especially with Spain preparing to host the Ryder Cup. Such venues attract global audiences and boost local tourism and economies.

The impact on players and fans

For players, diverse locations mean adapting to different climates, course styles, and environments, which can influence performance and rankings. For fans, it offers varied viewing experiences, both live and through broadcasts.

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Conclusion: A landmark year for golf’s global circuit

The 2026 DP World Tour season promises to be historic, not only for its record number of events and prize money but also for the significance of its locations. The Amgen Irish Open’s move to Trump International Golf Links Ireland symbolises the tour’s evolving landscape and ambition.

With new tournaments, challenging courses, and a tighter competitive field, players and fans alike can look forward to a thrilling Race to Dubai season that celebrates golf’s international spirit.

For those keen to explore more about upcoming major sporting events, including the ongoing developments in tennis, see our detailed coverage on the Us Open 2025 Alcaraz and Sinner set for historic grand slam final.