Ryder Cup could return toThe Belfry
Midland golf course on long list
GOLF’S Ryder Cup could return to England for the first time in 24 years with The Belfry under consideration to host the biennial contest again.
The Sutton Coldfield resort, which has already staged the competition a record four times, is a possible venue for 2026, the Birmingham Post understands.
The news comes just months after golfing legend Tony Jacklin feared it might not return to the Wishaw venue in his lifetime.
Planning and discussions with several countries and governments remain in the early stages following the success of last year’s Ryder Cup in Paris, where Europe beat the USA.
All viable nations and venues are being considered, with The one of those on the long list.
There are plans by Ryder Cup Europe to have representatives visit the course to determine its suitability.
Hopes will be boosted by the fact that the resort has undergone a £30 million refurbishment in recent years. The Belfry has hosted the Ryder Cup in 1985, 1989, 1993 and 2002, Europe winning two, losing one and drawing in 1989 when they still retained the cup.
Each time, the competition has been a boon for hotels and businesses across the West Midlands.
No club has staged more Ryder Cups than the Belfry, and its worldfamous Brabazon course.
Birmingham has already won the race to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games, although golf will not be included.
Belfry
But last year, Jacklin told the Birmingham Post: “It won’t happen in my lifetime. Logistically, these days it has to have Government backing. There’s the security aspect and a whole list of criteria now. It’s become massive, really massive.
“The debate as to where it will go in future is open to lots of different criteria.
“I’m sure there will be courses and venues built specifically in future to have the Ryder Cup.
“But The Belfry will always have its place in the history of the matches. It was where Europe got its start. It’s where the whole thing started. It’s absolutely still a very special name when it comes to the Ryder Cup.”
Next year’s competition is to be held at Whistling Straits in Wisconsin, with the Marco Simone Golf Club, near Rome, chosen for 2022.