R&A Rules Out Near-Term Open at Turnberry

The R&A, led by chief executive Mark Darbon, has confirmed that Donald Trump's Turnberry golf course in Scotland will not host the Open Championship in the near future, citing major logistical and infrastructure challenges such as road, rail, and accommodation capacity. While Turnberry remains on the list of possible venues, significant improvements are required to accommodate the larger crowds of recent Opens compared to 2009. Darbon recently met with Eric Trump and Trump Golf leadership to discuss the necessary upgrades, characterizing the discussions as constructive. The R&A maintains that logistics, not politics, are the primary barrier to Turnberry's selection, despite some previous leadership concerns about Trump's involvement. Collaboration with local and national government is ongoing to address infrastructure issues at Turnberry and other venues. The next two Open Championships will be held at Royal Birkdale and St Andrews, with the 2028 venue yet to be announced.