2028 Open Championship: Royal Lytham & St Annes to Host Before Turnberry and Muirfield

The 156th Open Championship will return to Royal Lytham &amp. St Annes in 2028, marking the 12th time the historic links course hosts golf’s original major. The R&A confirmed the decision on April 27, 2026, announcing the tournament will take place from July 30 to August 6, 2028. The venue last hosted The Open in 2012, when Ernie Els secured his second Claret Jug, adding his name to a list of champions that includes Bobby Jones, Seve Ballesteros, and Gary Player.

Royal Lytham & St Annes Selected Over Turnberry and Muirfield

The R&A’s choice of Royal Lytham & St Annes ends speculation about the 2028 host venue, with the course prevailing over Turnberry, and Muirfield. Both venues had been considered contenders, but Turnberry’s future in The Open rota remains uncertain due to ongoing infrastructure concerns and its association with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Muirfield, meanwhile, has been in dialogue with The R&A about a potential return, though no agreement has been reached for 2028 or beyond.

Mark Darbon, Chief Executive of The R&A, emphasized the significance of the decision, stating, Royal Lytham & St Annes is widely renowned as one of the world’s finest links courses and has witnessed many great championship moments since The Open was first played there in 1926 when the legendary Bobby Jones won. He added that the venue’s return will spark huge interest among fans to be part of one of the world’s great sporting events and celebrate the rich traditions of golf’s original Championship.

Tim Walker, Chairman of Council at Royal Lytham & St Annes, echoed the sentiment, calling the selection an honour and noting the club’s long and successful association with The Open. The announcement coincides with the centenary of Bobby Jones’ 1926 victory at the course, a milestone that underscores the venue’s historical importance in the sport.

A Historic Venue with a Storied Past

Royal Lytham & St Annes first hosted The Open in 1926, when Bobby Jones claimed victory in what was then the tournament’s 61st edition. Since then, the course has become one of the most revered in championship golf, known for its challenging layout and unpredictable coastal conditions. The 2028 event will be the first time The Open has been staged at the venue since 2012, when Els triumphed in a dramatic final round.

The course’s legacy includes victories by some of the game’s greatest players. In addition to Jones and Els, past champions at Royal Lytham & St Annes include Peter Thomson, Tony Jacklin, Tom Lehman, and David Duval. The venue’s ability to produce dramatic finishes—such as Ballesteros’ iconic 1979 win, where he famously drove the green on the 16th hole—has cemented its reputation as a true test of skill and strategy.

2028 Open Schedule Adjusted for Olympics

The 2028 Open will take place later than usual, with the tournament scheduled for July 30 to August 6. The adjusted dates accommodate the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, which run from July 14 to July 30. The shift ensures no overlap between the two major sporting events and allows fans to follow both without conflict.

The R&A’s decision to return to Royal Lytham & St Annes reflects a broader trend in The Open’s rotation, which prioritizes venues with deep historical ties to the championship. While St Andrews remains the most frequent host, with 30 editions, Royal Lytham & St Annes ranks among the most storied, alongside Royal St George’s, Royal Liverpool, and Royal Birkdale. The 2028 tournament will be the 12th time the course has hosted The Open, placing it in an elite group of venues that have shaped the championship’s legacy.

What to Expect in 2028

The 2028 Open at Royal Lytham & St Annes is expected to draw significant attention from players and fans alike. The course’s narrow fairways, deep bunkers, and punishing rough demand precision, while its coastal location ensures wind and weather will play a decisive role. Past champions have often highlighted the mental toughness required to navigate the course, making it a true test of championship golf.

For fans, the return to Royal Lytham & St Annes offers an opportunity to witness history in the making. The venue’s rich tradition, combined with its ability to produce unforgettable moments, ensures the 2028 Open will be one of the most anticipated editions in recent years. With the tournament’s schedule adjusted to avoid clashing with the Olympics, global viewership is expected to be strong, further cementing The Open’s status as one of golf’s premier events.

The R&A’s decision also underscores the organization’s commitment to preserving the championship’s heritage while navigating modern challenges. By selecting Royal Lytham & St Annes over Turnberry and Muirfield, The R&A has signaled its preference for venues with proven infrastructure and a strong connection to The Open’s history. As the countdown to 2028 begins, anticipation will build for another chapter in the storied rivalry between the world’s best golfers and one of the sport’s most iconic courses.