The 2026 Open Championship, golf’s oldest major, will take place at Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England. Scheduled for July 12-19, 2026, this marks the 154th edition of the tournament. Royal Birkdale, a prestigious links course, hosts the event for the 11th time, with its last hosting in 2017 when Jordan Spieth claimed the Claret Jug. This article explores the venue, its history, what to expect, and how you can prepare for the event, including tips for responsible betting if you choose to wager on the outcome.
Why Royal Birkdale?
Royal Birkdale stands out as a premier venue on the Open Championship rota. Located on England’s northwest coast, known as the Golf Coast, it offers a challenging links layout. Established in 1889 and redesigned in 1922, the course spans 6,690 yards. Its sand dunes and coastal winds test even the best golfers. The first hole, one of the toughest opening holes in major championships, sets the tone for a demanding week. Recent upgrades, including a new par-3 15th hole and redesigned 14th, 5th, and 7th holes, ensure a fresh challenge for 2026. Why does this course consistently draw the world’s top players?
Jul 18, 2025; Portrush, IRL; Jordan Spieth tees off on the first hole during the second round of The 153rd Open Championship golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn ImagesPast Champions at Royal Birkdale
Royal Birkdale has a rich history of crowning legendary champions. Since its first Open in 1954, won by Peter Thomson, the course has hosted iconic winners. Arnold Palmer’s 1961 victory boosted the tournament’s global appeal, drawing more American players. Lee Trevino (1971), Tom Watson (1983), Padraig Harrington (2008), and Jordan Spieth (2017) also claimed titles here. Spieth’s 2017 win, marked by a dramatic recovery on the 13th hole, remains a highlight. Who will join this elite list in 2026?
What to Expect in 2026
The 154th Open Championship runs from July 12-19, with practice rounds early in the week and competition from Thursday to Sunday. Expect top players like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Shane Lowry to compete for the Claret Jug. The R&A, the event’s organizer, introduces new ticket packages called Open Experiences for 2026. Options range from the Select package, offering access to private areas and food vouchers, to the premium Dunes House with gourmet dining and prime views. The course’s coastal setting and unpredictable weather add drama. Will the wind play a decisive role?
How to Attend the 2026 Open Championship
Planning to attend? Secure tickets early. The ticket ballot for 2026 is open until July 25, 2025, via TheOpen.com. You must be 16 or older and a member of the R&A’s free One Club to apply. General admission starts at around $80 for youth (16-24) and higher for adults. Premium packages, like Dunes House, start at $820. Book accommodations in Southport or nearby Liverpool, where you can explore attractions like the Albert Dock or Anfield stadium. Consider playing nearby courses like Royal Liverpool or Royal Lytham for a full golf experience. Have you started planning your trip?
Jul 21, 2024; Ayrshire, SCT; Xander Schauffele celebrates with Claret Jug after winning the Open Championship golf tournament at Royal Troon. Mandatory Credit: Jack Gruber-USA TODAY SportsUnique FAQs About the 2026 Open Championship
Got questions about the event? Here are answers to help you prepare.
Can you buy tickets on the day of the event? No, on-site ticket sales are unavailable. Purchase in advance via TheOpen.com. Are children allowed? Kids under 16 need an adult with a valid ticket. Can you upgrade tickets? Yes, contact Experiences@TheOpen.com to upgrade to premium packages, subject to availability. Is Royal Birkdale accessible for visitors? Yes, nearby Hesketh Golf Club offers tee times during the event week. What’s the best way to follow players? Use grandstands at holes 7, 13, or 15 for prime views.These tips ensure you’re ready for a memorable experience. What’s your top priority for attending?Betting Tips for the Open Championship
If you’re betting on the 2026 Open, approach it strategically. Research players’ form on links courses. For example, Shane Lowry thrives in windy conditions, as shown by his 2019 win at Royal Portrush. Check weather forecasts, as rain or wind can favor certain players. Spread bets across outright winners, top-10 finishes, and head-to-head matchups to reduce risk.
Use stats from recent tournaments, available on sites like Betspertsgolf.com or Twitter, to inform picks. Start with small wagers to test your strategy. Avoid betting on favorites without analyzing their course history. Which player will you back?
Responsible Gambling and Bankroll Management
Betting on the Open Championship can be exciting, but stay in control. Set a budget before placing any wagers. Limit bets to 1-2% of your bankroll per wager. For a $500 bankroll, that’s $5-$10 per bet. Never use money needed for essentials. Avoid chasing losses with bigger bets. For example, if you lose $20 on a matchup, don’t double down to recover it. Use tools like deposit limits on betting platforms to stay disciplined. Take breaks if betting feels stressful. Treat it as entertainment, not a way to make money. Resources for support are available on most betting apps. How will you keep your betting fun and safe? New users must be 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Responsible Gaming Resources
Jul 17, 2025; Portrush, IRL; Jacob Skov Olesen on the 18th green during the first round of The 153rd Open Championship golf tournament at Royal Portrush. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn ImagesRoyal Birkdale’s selection as the 2026 Open Championship venue promises a thrilling week of golf. Its challenging layout, storied history, and recent upgrades make it a must-watch event. Whether you’re attending, betting, or following along, preparation is key. Secure tickets early, study players, and manage your bankroll wisely. The Claret Jug awaits its next champion. Who do you think will lift it?
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