# Portmarnock close to hosting first Open outside UK

Portmarnock Golf Club in Ireland says it is “pretty close” to being selected as the venue for The Open, which would mark the first time the major championship is held outside the United Kingdom. The R&A, which organizes the tournament, is reportedly considering expanding beyond traditional British courses. If confirmed, it would be a historic shift for the 160-year-old event.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### Sports
- [BBC Sport](https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/golf/articles/ckg7gj67x73o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss) — Wed, 15 Jul 2026 11:47:36 GMT