The Open Championship remains one of the standout events in golf’s major calendar – and the tournament could be heading to the Republic of Ireland for the first time soon.
While the tournament has taken place on the island of Ireland on occasion – with Shane Lowry memorably winning at Royal Portrush in 2019 – no course in the Republic has ever hosted.
That all looks set to change, with the Irish Government agreeing to pledge €40m to Portmarnock Golf Club to go towards infrastructure costs as the club looks to secure host status.
The North Dublin course would be aiming to host both The Open and the Women’s Open, with significant sums involved in readying the surrounding areas for the potential influx of golf fans.
It is estimated that the staging of The Open in Portmarnock would attract approximately 250,000 visitors to the area and boost the local economy to the tune of €340m.
Taoiseach Simon Harris said: ‘The potential to host The Open and the Women’s Open would bring endless opportunities for the country including showcasing Ireland on the world stage and promoting equality in sport.
‘It would also provide cultural, economic and social benefits and overall, be a major boost for the country.
‘We already have a reputation as a world-leading golf destination and hosting these events would further enhance Ireland as a global destination for the sport. I look forward to the next steps to hopefully make this happen.’
