Could the Ryder Cup be going to Bolton after all?

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has pledged significant financial backing, announcing a £70 million package to support Hulton Park's bid to host the Ryder Cup. This investment is primarily aimed at developing the necessary infrastructure surrounding a new golf course in Bolton, which is targeting the 2035 tournament.

Mayor Burnham expressed serious intent, stating, "We’re deadly serious about it. We believe we can land [the Ryder Cup] and now it’s a case of putting in a firm bid next month and hopefully a decision soon." He also noted 'promising conversations' with event organisers, highlighting that this initiative is part of broader projects designed to stimulate the Greater Manchester economy.

England last hosted the Ryder Cup in 2002 at The Belfry, where Europe emerged victorious against America. While funding appears secured through Burnham's declaration, securing the event often hinges on broader governmental support. The potential bid has already garnered the support of European Ryder Cup star Tommy Fleetwood, who believes bringing the event to the North West would be 'incredible'.

Meanwhile, the 2031 Ryder Cup has been confirmed to return to Spain. The prestigious matches between Europe and the USA will take place at Camiral in Costa Brava, near Barcelona, marking 34 years since the event was last held in Spain at Valderrama. Camiral, previously known as PGA Catalunya, had been widely anticipated as the host.

The Hulton Park project, initially eyeing the 2031 event, has now shifted its focus to 2035, while Luton Hoo in Southern England had also expressed aspirations for the 2031 tournament. Surinder Arora, owner of Luton Hoo and the Arora Group, expressed his vision, stating, "When the opportunity came at Luton Hoo two years ago, I just fell in love with the place and thought, this is something. We can bring the Ryder Cup here and put Bedfordshire on the world map and create something really special as a legacy, so that’s the dream at Luton Hoo." He also highlighted the venue's rich heritage, including its Grade I Listed mansion and Capability Brown-designed grounds.

The Ryder Cup's history dates back to 1927, with the inaugural event at Worcester Country Club in Massachusetts. Great Britain first hosted at Moortown Golf Club in Leeds. The tournament famously alternates between the United States and Europe, ensuring a home advantage for Team USA and Team Europe in alternate years.

Numerous golf courses have hosted the Ryder Cup, allowing the home captain to tailor course conditions to suit their team's strengths. Following America's dominant victory over Europe at Whistling Straits in 2021, featuring a team of high-quality PGA Tour stars, Luke Donald's European side reclaimed the trophy in Italy. Donald will aim to extend his unbeaten record when the event returns in 2025.

Future Ryder Cup Venues

2025

Bethpage State Park (Black Course), Farmingdale, New York

This historic course, established in 1936 and designed by Joseph Burbeck and A.W. Tillinghast, has a rich championship pedigree, having hosted three major championships and two PGA Tour events. Brooks Koepka secured the PGA Championship here in 2019, its most recent major. Known for its challenging layout, Bethpage is expected to draw fervent support from local US fans, as Team USA aims to reclaim the cup on home turf.

2027

Adare Manor, Limerick, Republic of Ireland

Situated approximately 10 miles from Limerick in Southern Ireland, Adare Manor dates back to the 19th century, though its golf course is relatively newer, established three decades ago. Originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr, it underwent a significant redesign by Tom Fazio and reopened in 2018. The course, which previously hosted the Irish Open in 2007 and 2008, is renowned for seamlessly integrating with the natural beauty of its surroundings, including the picturesque River Maigue.

2029

Hazeltine National Golf Club, Chaska, Minnesota

Another creation of Robert Trent Jones Sr, Hazeltine National famously hosted Team USA's victory over Europe in the 2016 Ryder Cup. Since its opening in 1962, it has also been the venue for the PGA Championship in 2002 and 2009, and the Women’s PGA Championship in 2019.

2031

Camiral, Costa Brava, Spain

Previously a host for DP World Tour events and Q-School, Camiral has now been officially named as a Ryder Cup venue. Europe will be eager to defend the trophy on home soil, in a nation renowned for producing golf legends like Seve Ballesteros.

2033

The Olympic Club, San Francisco, California

With a history dating back to its opening in 1860, The Olympic Club stands as America's oldest athletic club. Designed by Sam Whiting and Willie Watson, it last hosted a major in 2012 when Webb Simpson won the US Open. Its impressive tournament record includes five US Opens, the 2021 US Women’s Open, and three US Amateurs.

2035

Europe – To Be Confirmed.

2037

Congressional Country Club, Bethesda, Maryland

Opened in 1924 in Bethesda, Maryland, Congressional Country Club has a distinguished history as both a PGA Tour and major championship venue. It has hosted three US Opens and the 1976 PGA Championship. The club features two prominent courses: the Blue course, designed by Devereux Emmet and Robert Trent Jones Sr, and the Gold course, shaped by Emmet, George Fazio, and Tom Fazio.