R&A Moves Closer to Hosting Open Championship in Dublin

New Delhi, India Jul 15, 2026 ALN: Chief executive Mark Darbon says the R&A is "getting pretty close" to staging an Open Championship outside of the United Kingdom for the first time, at Portmarnock Club in Dublin.

The R&A - the governing body which organises and runs the Open - first revealed the possibility of Portmarnock hosting the oldest championship in 2023, with the Irish government announcing its support of up to 40 million euro (£34m) in 2024.

Portmarnock has previously hosted the men's and women's amateur championships, showcasing its capability to manage high-profile events. This course, located just north of Dublin, is known for its stunning coastal views and challenging layout, which has earned it a reputation as one of the finest links courses in the world. The potential hosting of the Open Championship would not only enhance its prestige but also significantly boost tourism and local economies in the region.

"It's a complicated venue because of the scale of the Open Championship," Darbon said on the eve of this year's 154th tournament at Royal Birkdale. The logistics involved in hosting such a large-scale event, including infrastructure, accommodations, and tranation, necessitate thorough planning and collaboration with various stakeholders.

"There's been a lot of great feasibility work with the club themselves, with the local authority, the government," Darbon explained. This indicates that the R&A is not only considering the course's suitability but also how well it can integrate into the surrounding community and infrastructure.

"We've undertaken a big feasibility study. That work is pretty much done. We've confirmed that we believe we can take an Open Championship there," he added. This statement reflects a significant step forward in the planning process, as feasibility studies are crucial in determining whether a venue can meet the demands of an event of this magnitude.

"What we're looking to do is to build a model that opens up opportunities for the AIG Women's Open and The Open for many, many years to come," Darbon stated. This forward-thinking approach suggests that the R&A is not solely focused on a one-time event but is considering the long-term implications and benefits of hosting future championships in Ireland.

"That's the dialogue we're in right now with the Irish Government and we're optimistic that those discussions are heading in the right direction," he continued. The collaboration between the R&A and the Irish government is essential, as governmental support can provide the necessary funding and resources to facilitate the event.

Pressed for a timeframe on a possible announcement, Darbon added: "In the spirit of transparency, it's taking a bit longer than I and we thought it may, but it's complicated doing all that feasibility work." This acknowledgment of the complexities involved highlights the careful consideration the R&A is putting into this decision, ensuring that all aspects are thoroughly evaluated before moving forward.

"We're hoping to have a pretty clear view by the end of the year," he stated, indicating that stakeholders might expect some clarity on the matter soon. This timeline is significant as it aligns with the calendar, allowing for potential marketing and promotional opportunities should the announcement be made.

'It would be amazing'

Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry have previously voiced their support for an Open at Portmarnock, with the latter telling BBC NI earlier this week that he visited the club last week. Their endorsements carry weight in the ing community, as both players are prominent figures in the and have a deep connection to Irish .

"They're not giving too much away over there but all the rumours are that it's going to be announced at some stage," said the 2019 Open champion. This statement reflects the growing anticipation and excitement surrounding the potential for the Open Championship to come to Dublin, a city rich in ing history and culture.

"Who knows, it would be amazing to have an Open Championship in Dublin. One of the biggest tournaments in the world coming to a place where I live would be very cool," Lowry expressed. His personal connection to the location adds an emotional layer to the potential event, emphasizing the significance it would hold for local fans and aspiring ers.

"I think Portmarnock is one of the best courses in the world so I think it's fit for an Open. It would be a good Open for the R&A, it would be very successful. The infrastructure is all there," he added. Lowry's comments about the course's quality and existing infrastructure reinforce the idea that Portmarnock is well-equipped to host such a prestigious event, which could further solidify its reputation on the global stage.

St Andrews will host next year's Open before the tournament returns to Royal Lytham & St Annes for the first time in 16 years in 2028. This scheduling indicates a careful balancing act by the R&A, as they navigate traditional venues with the desire to expand the championship's reach. The Open Championship has a rich history, dating back to 1860, and has traditionally been held in Scotland and England, making a move to Ireland a significant milestone in its evolution.

Beyond that, the R&A is yet to confirm any other host venues. This uncertainty adds an element of intrigue to the discussions surrounding Portmarnock, as enthusiasts and stakeholders alike await the R&A's decision on future venues. The potential for the Open Championship to be held in Dublin could set a precedent for future tournaments and may prompt other governing bodies to consider similar expansions into new territories.

In conclusion, the R&A's consideration of Portmarnock as a host for the Open Championship represents a pivotal moment in the history of the tournament. It reflects a broader trend in s towards inclusivity and diversity, as well as a recognition of the global nature of . Should the plans come to fruition, it would not only be a landmark achievement for the R&A but also a celebration of 's rich heritage in Ireland, a country that has produced numerous world-class players and has a vibrant ing culture.