Greater Manchester Launches Ambitious Bid to Host Ryder Cup in 2035
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham has thrown his weight behind a substantial £70 million bid aimed at bringing the prestigious Ryder Cup back to England for the first time in more than three decades. The ambitious proposal targets the 2035 edition of the iconic intercontinental golf competition, with plans to stage it at a bespoke, world-class course in Bolton.
Bolton's Vision for a Historic Golf Event
The bid, championed by Burnham and supported by Team Europe star Tommy Fleetwood, seeks to host the Ryder Cup at Hulton Park, a historic estate in Bolton. If successful, this would mark the first time England has hosted the event since 2002, when it was held at The Belfry. Burnham emphasized that culture and sport are pivotal drivers of regional growth, stating that this initiative represents a major opportunity for economic and community development.
"We're bidding to host the biggest ever Ryder Cup in Bolton in 2035," Burnham declared. "We've had promising conversations with organisers about bringing the tournament to Hulton Park. But it will only be possible with the right infrastructure."
Substantial Investment in Infrastructure and Transport
The proposed £70 million investment is earmarked for a comprehensive transport package designed to facilitate spectator access to the site while delivering long-term benefits for local residents. This infrastructure plan aims to enhance connectivity and support sustainable growth in the surrounding areas, ensuring the event's legacy extends beyond the tournament itself.
Tommy Fleetwood's Enthusiastic Endorsement
Southport-born golfer Tommy Fleetwood expressed strong support for the bid, highlighting the significance of hosting the Ryder Cup in England, particularly in the North West region. "As a golfer, a Ryder Cup being in England, first and foremost, would be something special," Fleetwood said. "On top of that, to do it in the North West of England, where I'm from, would be amazing. We have so much to offer, and I think it would be something incredible."
Future Ryder Cup Hosts and Global Context
The Ryder Cup's upcoming editions are already scheduled, with Ireland's Adare Manor set to host in 2027, followed by the Camiral Golf and Wellness Club in Catalonia for the 2031 European edition. In the United States, Hazeltine and the Olympic Club will host in 2029 and 2033, respectively, while Maryland's Congressional Country Club is slated for 2037. This positions Bolton's bid as a key contender for the 2035 slot, potentially revitalizing England's role in global golf.
The bid represents a collaborative effort between local government, sports figures, and community stakeholders, aiming to leverage the Ryder Cup's international profile to boost tourism, infrastructure, and regional pride. With strong backing and a clear vision, Greater Manchester's proposal could mark a historic return for one of golf's most celebrated events to English soil.
