Full Breakdown
PGA Tour Relocates 2026 Sentry Tournament from Kapalua Due to Drought
9/19/2025, 1:05:04 PM
Impact of Drought on the Sentry Tournament
The PGA Tour has announced that the 2026 Sentry Tournament of Champions will not be held at the Plantation Course at Kapalua Resort in Maui, Hawaii, due to severe drought conditions and related logistical challenges. This marks the first time since 1999 that the tournament will not open the PGA season at Kapalua, a tradition that has persisted for nearly three decades. The event, scheduled for January 8-11, 2026, is a significant tournament with a $20 million purse, inviting all PGA Tour winners from the previous season and the top 50 players in the FedEx Cup standings.
Background on Water Issues in Maui
Maui has been grappling with a severe drought affecting over 140,000 residents, leading to stringent water conservation mandates. The drought has significantly impacted the Kapalua area, where the Plantation Course has been left unplayable due to irrigation restrictions. The National Integrated Drought Information System reports that 93.3% of Maui's population is affected by these conditions. In early September 2025, both the Plantation and Bay courses were closed to conserve water, but the situation deteriorated further, prompting the PGA Tour's decision.
Legal Disputes Over Water Supply
At the heart of the water crisis is a dispute involving Maui Land & Pineapple (MLP), which manages the irrigation system supplying water to Kapalua. A lawsuit filed by Kapalua Resort, owned by Japanese billionaire Tadashi Yanai, alleges that MLP has failed to maintain the water delivery system, leading to inadequate water supply for the golf courses. MLP contends that it has made necessary repairs and improvements as directed by the Commission on Water Resource Management. The ongoing legal battle underscores the complexities surrounding water management in the region.
Economic and Community Implications
The cancellation of The Sentry is expected to have significant economic repercussions for Maui, where the tournament generates an estimated $50 million annually. Local businesses, charities, and youth sports programs have traditionally benefited from the tournament's charitable contributions, which totaled a record $747,000 in 2025 alone. Governor Josh Green expressed support for the PGA Tour's decision, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing community water needs over the tournament.
Official Statements and Responses
PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp stated, “The PGA TOUR has determined the 2026 playing of The Sentry will not be contested at The Plantation Course at Kapalua due to ongoing drought conditions, water conservation requirements, agronomic conditions, and logistical challenges.” Stephanie Smith, chief marketing and brand officer at Sentry Insurance, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the deep connections between the Sentry community and Maui.
What's Next for The Sentry Tournament
As of now, the PGA Tour has not announced a replacement venue for The Sentry. Speculation includes potential returns to previous locations such as Omni La Costa Resort in California or other high-end venues with better water availability. Meanwhile, the 2026 Sony Open will proceed as planned at Waialae Country Club in Honolulu, indicating that not all PGA events in Hawaii are affected by the drought.
Conclusion
The decision to relocate The Sentry reflects broader environmental challenges facing golf and tourism in Hawaii, raising questions about the sustainability of high-profile events in regions vulnerable to climate change. The PGA Tour's actions highlight the need for careful consideration of community resources and environmental stewardship in the future of professional golf.
