PGA Tour Expands Signature Events, Intensifies 2026 Schedule Congestion

The PGA Tour will return to Miami in 2026 with the Miami Championship at Trump National Doral, reinstating the iconic venue as a signature event with a $20 million purse. This addition increases the number of signature events to nine, comprising more than a quarter of the 35-tournament regular season, and creates a congested six-week stretch featuring two majors and three signature events. Top players, including Rory McIlroy, have expressed concerns about the demanding schedule but acknowledge the ability to choose their participation. Critics argue that the expansion of signature events places undue pressure on regular tournaments, which struggle to attract top fields, and may lead to player defections from big-money events. The dense schedule may limit competitive opportunities for players outside the top ranks, who face fewer full-field tournaments during this period. Overall, while the return to Doral is a strategic win for the Tour, it raises questions about schedule balance and the impact on the broader player base and regular tour events.