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Spain has officially been chosen to host the 2031 Ryder Cup, bringing one of the biggest events in the world of golf back to the country for the first time in more than three decades.

 

The tournament will take place at the Camiral Golf & Wellness Resort in Caldes de Malavella, Girona, about an hour from Barcelona. This will be only the second time Spain has hosted the Ryder Cup, following the historic 1997 edition at Valderrama in Andalucía.

 

Negotiations to bring the event back to Spain have been ongoing for years, but progress was delayed due to political uncertainty and changes within the Catalan government. Despite those hurdles, an agreement has now been reached.

 

The official announcement is expected shortly after the conclusion of the British Open, which has just wrapped up in Northern Ireland. All signs point to Tuesday July 22 as the date the news will be confirmed.

This decision puts Spain in an exclusive club. Until now, only the United Kingdom and the United States had hosted the event more than once. Ireland will join that list in 2027 when it stages the Ryder Cup at Adare Manor, having previously done so at The K Club in 2006.

 

Camiral, previously known as PGA Catalunya, is owned by Irish businessman Denis O'Brien.

 

Environmental concerns had stalled the announcement in recent months due to drought conditions in Catalonia. However, the resort has clarified that it irrigates its courses using recycled water from treatment plants rather than drinking water. That sustainability factor was essential to securing the bid.

 

As is usually the case, not everyone is celebrating the news. Local activist groups and the CUP party have voiced concerns about the environmental impact and financial investment involved. The overall cost of the project is estimated at around €140 million, with €40 expected to come from the regional government.

 

Another big decision still to come is what the tournament will actually be called. Organisers are currently considering four options: Barcelona, Costa Brava, Catalonia or Spain. The final choice will be revealed on the day of the official announcement.

 

This will be a proud moment for Spanish golf. The 1997 Ryder Cup at Valderrama was a turning point, with Europe claiming victory under the legendary Seve Ballesteros. That team also featured José María Olazábal and Nacho Garrido.

 

In the years since, Spain’s contribution to the Ryder Cup has only grown, thanks to stars like Sergio García, who holds the all-time points record, and Jon Rahm, one of the standout players in Europe’s 2023 win in Rome.

 

The next showdown between Europe and the USA will take place in September at Bethpage, New York. But in 2031, all eyes will turn to Catalonia, where the Ryder Cup is set to write its next chapter on Spanish soil.

 

 

Image: Camiral Golf & Wellness