On the eve of the 153rd Open Championship, R&A Chief Executive Mark Darbon addressed the media in Royal Portrush today, discussing everything from the growing prospect of staging The Open in Dublin to navigating the unique cultural setting of Northern Ireland.

Darbon confirmed that Portmarnock Golf Club is under serious consideration to become the first Open venue in the Republic of Ireland.

“Yes, we are thinking about Portmarnock. We think it’s a fantastic links course and we’ve been really encouraged by the support in principle that we have had from the Irish government to work with us to understand if we can stage an Open Championship there in the future.”

He noted that feasibility studies are already well underway.

“We’re knee‑deep in feasibility work to help us answer that question fully. We expect to have a clearer picture by the back end of this year.”

“We’re really optimistic,” he added, underscoring the enthusiasm within the R&A for exploring new territory with The Open.

Darbon also commented on the realities of staging a global sporting event in Northern Ireland, including the presence of a traditional Orange Order parade passing through Portrush this week.

“We’re obviously aware of it,” he said. “We’re visitors here, and we want to be respectful. We want to be good citizens and partners to the community.”

He emphasised the R&A’s approach to working collaboratively with local authorities and stakeholders.

“We’ve worked closely with local agencies and organisers to make sure that we’re sensitive to the timing and the logistics. The priority is ensuring a safe, welcoming and inclusive event for everyone.”

Darbon was full of praise for Royal Portrush, suggesting it has firmly earned its place on the regular Open rota.

“We love this venue… the natural amphitheatre of the dunes, the scale, the welcome — it’s all here. We look forward to coming back for many years to come.”

 

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