Organisers defend 2027 Ryder Cup ticket prices

Adare Manor will be the second Irish venue to host the Ryder Cup after the K Club in 2006 [Getty Images]

Ryder Cup organisers have defended ticket prices for next year's centenary event in Ireland despite a significant increase from the last European edition in Rome.

Daily general admission tickets for the three tournament days on 17-19 September at Adare Manor in County Limerick will cost 499 euros (£434), compared with up to 260 euros in Italy in 2023.

While it marks a record high for ticket prices for a European hosted Ryder Cup, it is less than the $750 (£555) fans paid to watch Europe's victory over the United States at Bethpage Black in New York last year.

"We acknowledge it's an increase from Rome," Richard Atkinson, the European Tour Group's chief Ryder Cup officer, told BBC Sport NI.

"That was four years ago and a lot has happened in the world since then. We are lower than Bethpage. We've tried to make this as accessible as possible to a wide demographic of people. Our practice day tickets will be from 89 euros and juniors from 20 euros.

"Our prices are proportionate to a global sporting event. This event has grown in stature and profile, it's one of the biggest sporting events in the world. We're confident in our pricing but we've made it accessible to everyone."

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Prices for the Tuesday and Wednesday practice days will be available from 89 euros (£77), while a Thursday ticket - which includes the opening ceremony - will cost 179 euros (£156).

Atkinson added that he "absolutely" believes the 499 euros price tag is fair and feels fans will get their money's worth in Ireland through a combination of golf and entertainment.

"We have significant focus on the fan experience on site and from the moment the people arrive at 6.30 in the morning, they'll be entertained not only by 24 of the best golfers in the world but also outside of the ropes, we'll have an extensive entertainment programme to keep the fans engaged.