Economic and tourism boost expected
The Scottish Government has announced a package of three-year
funding totalling £6.3 million to continue development of the
Genesis Scottish Open. The financial support covers the DP World
Tour's event up to 2028.
Staged at the Renaissance Club in North Berwick, the recognised
annual tournament attracts many of the world's leading players
and saw a record crowd of nearly 90,000 last year.
Independent analysis estimates that in 2024 it generated £19.2
million for the economy, supporting 234 jobs.
Announcing the funding at the Renaissance Club, Business Minister
said:
“Scotland is the home of golf and this world-class event
showcases to millions of fans around the globe exactly why we
have that reputation.
“This investment will help ensure the tournament continues to go
from strength to strength, attracting the very best players while
delivering significant economic and tourism benefits for
Scotland.
“Over the next three years the Genesis Scottish Open, along with
other major sporting events, will raise Scotland's global
profile, support jobs and communities and inspire the next
generation of sportspeople.”
Genesis Scottish Open Director Rory Colville said:
“The support of the Scottish Government and VisitScotland is
incredibly important to the Genesis Scottish Open.
“The eyes of the golfing world – and beyond – are on Scotland
each summer as some of the biggest stars of the game gather in
the home of golf and we are passionate about working with our
partners to provide a warm welcome to everyone who joins us at
the Renaissance Club, showcasing Scotland as a sporting
destination to those watching from around the world.”
Director of Industry and Events at VisitScotland, said:
“The Genesis Scottish Open draws thousands of visitors from
around the world each year, playing a key role in growing
Scotland's visitor economy and raising the country's
international profile, while also delivering meaningful social
and environmental benefits.
“Our long-standing involvement in the tournament reflects our
commitment to showcasing the country as the perfect
stage for events, through a diverse portfolio of sporting and
cultural experiences.”
Background
The 2026 Genesis Scottish Open takes place from 8 to 12 July at
The Renaissance Club, North Berwick, the week before the Open
Championship. The tournament is one of five premier Rolex Series
events on the DP World Tour's Race to Dubai and is also part of
the PGA TOUR's FedExCup.
Golf tourism attracts thousands of visitors to Scotland each
year, with more than 550 golf courses across the country.
Analysis of the Genesis Scottish Open's economic impact in 2024
was undertaken by MKA Economics.
Other major sporting events the Scottish Government is supporting
include the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, the 2027 Tour de
France Grand Depart, UEFA Euro 28 and the World Rally
Championship.
East Lothian Council Chief Executive
Laurence Rockey said:
“The Genesis Scottish Open has been an
enormous boost to East Lothian over the last few years, first at
Gullane and then at the Renaissance Club from 2019, both in
economic benefit and through the knock-on effect of raising East
Lothian's profile as Scotland's Golf Coast to a global audience.
East Lothian Council has been proud to support and facilitate
this prestigious event and we are looking forward to another
fantastic event in 2026.”
