Open Qualifying gets even more dramatic as R&A spices things up

By , Golf writer and wannabe darts player.

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Discover the R&A’s new ‘Last-Chance Qualifier’ – an intense winner-takes-all battle for a spot in the Open field.

The R&A is introducing a high-stakes ‘Last-Chance Qualifier’ at Royal Birkdale, promising thrilling drama for players fighting to secure their spot in the 2026 Open Championship.

Open Qualifying is already widely regarded as golf’s most gruelling qualifying gauntlet – and it’s about to get even more cutthroat.

Every year, hundreds of hopefuls battle through Regional and Final Qualifying in search of a precious Open Championship spot. Some see their dreams shattered by a single missed putt. Others emerge with stories that define careers.

From next year, things will be even more dramatic.

The R&A has announced the creation of a brand-new ‘Last-Chance Qualifier’ – a winner-takes-all showdown on the Monday of Open week.

Up to 12 players will compete over 18 holes of the iconic Southport links to decide who earns the very final place in the Open field.

We have asked the R&A for information on how the 12 players will be selected.

If you love golf with everything on the line, this could become an unmissable slice of sporting theatre.

And it’s not the only new twist aimed at turning Open week into the ultimate celebration of golf.

The 2026 Open looks set to be the most entertaining yet

“The Open is one of the world’s great sporting events and recognised worldwide for the special atmosphere generated by the tens of thousands of fans who attend the Championship each year,” says Mark Darbon, Chief Executive of The R&A.

“We have asked them how we can make their experience of attending The Open even more enjoyable and they have been clear: they want more live golf, more opportunities to engage with the traditions of golf’s original championship, and more activities onsite to watch, listen and play.

“As a result, we have introduced new features which we believe will elevate The Open for fans, particularly on the days leading up to the Championship, providing a memorable experience of attending Royal Birkdale with friends and family next year.”

Huge stars from the world of golf will take part in Open Final Qualifying for the chance to compete for the Claret Jug at Royal Portrush.

As well as Monday’s ‘Last-Chance Qualifier’, the 2026 Open will introduce ‘The Heroes Classic’, which will see a number of past champions and invited special guests taking part in a short-format challenge on Tuesday 14 July.

The Sunday before Open week will include world-class sport being screened live in the spectator village, including the men’s final of Wimbledon and the final round of the Genesis Scottish Open, while on the eve of the Championship on Wednesday 15 July, fans can attend The Open Preview Show as all eyes look towards the opening tee shot first thing in the morning on the following day.

Details of these events and further entertainment being provided for fans at Royal Birkdale will be announced in due course.

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