Story perspectives

Portmarnock Targets 2027 Open with €40M Upgrade, 750k Applications

7/16/2026

Summary

Portmarnock Eyes Open

The R&A, Irish Government and Fingal County Council are pursuing the 2027 Open at Portmarnock, with a verdict due by end-2026.
A feasibility study confirmed Portmarnock’s course meets modern championship standards, prompting the Irish Government to pledge €40 million for transport upgrades.
Portmarnock must build a 30,000-square-meter flat tent village while protecting its protected dune ecosystem.
Ticket demand for the 2027 Open produced over 750,000 lottery applications in nine days.

Summary

Darbon Eyes Portmarnock

R&A chief executive Mark Darbon said moving the Open to Portmarnock is getting pretty close.
Darbon said the R&A will decide on Portmarnock by year-end.
The 154th Open opens Thursday at Royal Birkdale, the final major of the 2026 season.
Royal Portrush hosted the Open in 1951, 2019 and 2025, reflecting a recent return to Irish links.

Summary

Harrington Endorses Open

The R&A would stage its first Open outside United Kingdom if Portmarnock Golf Club is approved.
Padraig Harrington, two-time Open champion, says the fairways and greens would appeal to players.
He adds that fairness and a quirky hole would delight spectators and guests.
Portmarnock Golf Club, which hosted the Irish Open 19 times (most recently 2003), would host a Dublin Open—the only Open held in capital city—offering distinct atmosphere.

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Portmarnock Eyes Open

The R&A, Irish Government and Fingal County Council are pursuing the 2027 Open at Portmarnock, with a verdict due by end-2026.
A feasibility study confirmed Portmarnock’s course meets modern championship standards, prompting the Irish Government to pledge €40 million for transport upgrades.
Portmarnock must build a 30,000-square-meter flat tent village while protecting its protected dune ecosystem.
Ticket demand for the 2027 Open produced over 750,000 lottery applications in nine days.

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