British Open breaks tradition: change of dates for 2028 edition
The Royal and Ancient (R&A) Committee, organizer of the British Open, has announced that the 156th edition (that of 2028) of the British golf major, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious sporting events, will see a major change in the location on the calendar: the quintessential Open will in fact not be played in mid-July, as traditionally, but from August 3 to 6.
The decision stems from the need to avoid overlap with the golf competitions of the Los Angeles Olympic Games, scheduled for July 19-29 of the same year. “We have worked together with the relevant bodies and our partners to define new dates that respect the Olympic calendar” explained Mark Darbon, general manager of the Royal & Ancient.
The change affects only the 2028 edition: from 2029 the British Open will return to its usual mid-July slot, reverting to the historic tradition. “Clarifying the dates now – Darbon pointed out – helps planning the world golf calendar and ensures continuity for subsequent years”.
As for the 2026 edition, the British Open will be held at the Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, about 25 kilometers from Liverpool, from July 15 to 19. The holder of the trophy is American Scottie Scheffler, who won the 2025 edition by four shots over compatriot Harris English.
