President Donald Trump’s golf course at Turnberry is unlikely to host the Open Championship in the near future, according to R&A chief executive Mark Darbon. The decision has nothing to do with politics but rather transportation and logistical challenges.
Turnberry, a highly regarded links course on Scotland’s Ayrshire coast, last hosted the Open in 2009 before Trump purchased the resort. While the R&A loves the golf course, they have yet to confirm its inclusion in future events due to infrastructure issues.
Darbon explained that the organization is working on improving road, rail, and accommodation infrastructure around Turnberry to accommodate the increasing number of spectators attending the tournament. The current focus for the 2024 Open is Royal Portrush, which will host an estimated 278,000 spectators, the second-largest behind St. Andrews.
In a discussion with Eric Trump and other leaders from Trump Golf, Darbon stated that they have made significant progress in addressing the challenges. The R&A has met with the UK government to discuss potential solutions and emphasize that their decision on future Open sites rests solely with them.
Muirfield, another Scottish links course, is also being considered for future events. While it has hosted 15 Opens since its first appearance in 1892, the R&A prefers newer courses that can accommodate larger crowds. After a 2013 victory by Phil Mickelson, Muirfield’s last Open took place without spectators due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The 2025 Open will be held at Royal Birkdale, followed by St. Andrews in 2027. The site for the 2028 event has yet to be announced.
Source: https://www.espn.com/golf/story/_/id/45753345/donald-trump-turnberry-faces-logistical-hurdles-open-return