R&A ‘pretty close’ to staging Open at Portmarnock

R&A Nearing Decision to Host Open Championship in Dublin

R A pretty close to staging - The R&A, the organization responsible for overseeing The Open Championship, is on the verge of selecting Portmarnock Golf Club in Dublin as its first international venue for the prestigious event. This marks a significant shift from the traditional UK-based hosts. The feasibility of the move was first explored in 2023, and the Irish government has since pledged up to 40 million euros (£34 million) in support.

Feasibility Work Completes, Confidence Builds

Mark Darbon, the R&A’s chief executive, shared insights ahead of this year’s 154th Open at Royal Birkdale. He noted that the process has been complex due to the scale of the championship. “We’ve completed extensive feasibility studies with the club, local authorities, and government,” Darbon explained. “The findings confirm Portmarnock’s readiness to host The Open.”

“Our goal is to establish a framework that ensures long-term success for both The Open and the AIG Women’s Open,” he added. “The discussions with the Irish Government are progressing positively, and we aim to finalize details by year’s end.”

Portmarnock has previously hosted men’s and women’s amateur championships, but hosting the professional Open would be a historic milestone. The course’s potential was recently highlighted by Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry, who endorsed the idea. McIlroy, a 2019 Open champion, expressed enthusiasm for the possibility: “It would be incredible to see the Open in Dublin. The infrastructure is already in place, and the course itself deserves a global stage.”

Lowry confirmed his recent visit to the club, reinforcing the belief that Portmarnock is a world-class destination. “The rumors suggest an announcement is coming soon,” he said. “If it happens, it’ll be a dream for golf fans in Ireland.”

St Andrews will host the next Open in 2025, followed by Royal Lytham & St Annes in 2028. The R&A has not yet disclosed future venues beyond these dates, but the prospect of Dublin’s inclusion is gaining momentum. With the final round of the 154th Open scheduled for 16–19 July at Royal Birkdale, the countdown to a potential historic announcement continues.