The PGA Tour has announced a major restructuring of its competitive format, approving a two-tier system with promotion and relegation that will come into effect in 2028. The elite-tier Championship Series will feature 23-24 events with $20m (£15m) purses, while the Challenger Series will offer $4m (£3m) purses and provide a pathway for players to earn promotion.
PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp said the changes were driven by a desire to build the best version of the tour. The Championship Series will include the four majors, the Players Championship, season-ending events, and team events such as the Ryder Cup and Presidents Cup. It will feature an average of 120 players in 72-hole strokeplay events with a 36-hole cut.
The new structure introduces true promotion and relegation, with a minimum of 90 players retained on the Championship Series and 20 promoted from the Challenger Series each season. Two-time winners on the Challenger Series will earn immediate promotion. A 'last chance' series of four to six events will offer limited spots on the Championship Series.
Tiger Woods, making his first public appearance since his DUI charge in March, was part of the nine-member committee that recommended the changes. 'We have to look forward and beyond today and over the horizon to set up the PGA Tour and our sport for the future generations of players and fans,' Woods said. Rolapp noted that new markets under consideration for Championship Series events include Boston, Denver, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, and Washington DC.
Rory McIlroy, who had previously expressed concerns about a two-tier system, called the changes a positive step. 'Over the last few years, golf has faced a period of uncertainty and division... Today, we are putting the fans first,' he said in a statement. The PGA Tour also announced that Rolapp will become commissioner from January, succeeding Jay Monahan.
