Golf Industry Asia
Golf Industry Asia

DP World Tour Anchors in Bahrain with Landmark 10-Year Extension

31 January, 2026

The DP World Tour and the Bahrain Olympic Committee have announced a historic multi-year partnership extension, ensuring the Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship remains a fixture on the global golf calendar until at least 2036.

The announcement was made during the Opening Ceremony of the 2026 championship at the Royal Golf Club, held under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The tournament, which begins tomorrow, features a $2.75 million prize fund and serves as a vital component of the DP World Tour’s "International Swing," following high-profile stops in Dubai.

A Decade of Certainty

The ten-year renewal underscores Bahrain’s growing influence in the professional sporting landscape. His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Hamad Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Olympic Committee, hailed the agreement as a testament to the Kingdom's infrastructure and vision.

"The Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship represents an exceptional competitive platform, offering significant prize rewards and a prestigious pathway toward major global competitions," said His Highness. "This extension reflects deep-seated international confidence in Bahrain’s professional organisational capabilities, our dedication to sustainable success, and our commitment to strengthening global sporting partnerships."

Strengthening Partnerships and Sustainability

In tandem with the tour extension, Bapco Energies confirmed it will continue as the Title Partner through 2028. Having stepped up from a presenting partner in 2024 to title sponsor in 2025, the integrated energy company is championing a "green" approach to the event. This year's tournament features pioneering sustainability initiatives, including hospitality units powered by solar energy and advanced battery systems.

Mark Thomas, Group CEO of Bapco Energies, stated:

"This partnership not only reinforces our commitment to world-class sporting events in the Kingdom, but also reflects our dedication to Bahrain’s growing presence on the global stage."

Tournament Quick Facts: 2026 Edition

Feature Details
Prize Fund $2.75 Million
Venue Royal Golf Club (Confirmed host through 2028)
Swing Category DP World Tour International Swing
Key Partners Bahrain Olympic Committee, Bapco Energies, DP World Tour

A World-Class Venue

The Royal Golf Club has also been locked in as the host venue for the 2027 and 2028 editions. Captain Waleed Abdulhameed Al Alawi, Chairman of the club, expressed immense pride in the facility’s role. "We have been delighted with the positive feedback received on the course so far," he noted, praising the staff's efforts in maintaining championship standards.

Tom Phillips, Director of Middle East at the DP World Tour, concluded by highlighting the event's strategic importance:

"This tournament has quickly established itself as a key fixture... growing in stature each year. Our extended partnership reflects a long-term vision to deliver world-class sporting experiences and further strengthen Bahrain’s position as a leading destination for international sport, tourism and business."

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