Will FIFA World Cup force British Open schedule change?

TL;DR

The British Open organizers are considering changing the final day schedule to avoid a clash with the FIFA World Cup final on July 19, 2026. They may start the last day earlier to accommodate fans and viewers.

Key points

British Open organizers are considering a schedule change
Final day of the British Open may start earlier
FIFA World Cup final is on July 19, 2026
Both events are scheduled for the same day
Change aims to accommodate fans and viewers

Mentioned in this story

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Will FIFA World Cup force British Open schedule change?

Organizers of the British Open golf tournament are open to changing the schedule of the final day to avoid a crossover with the final of the FIFA World Cup final.

The final for the showcase soccer event is set to be played July 19, 2026, the same date the final round of The Open tees off at Royal Birkdale in Southport, England.

The golf tournament might start its last day earlier than usual to allow what is expected to be a record crowd at the golf tournament to be able to get home and watch the final on TV - and to give a gap for viewers at home to see both events.

"We're conscious of other events happening on that date," said Mark Darbon, chief executive of the R&A, which governs the event. "Of course, some things are out of our control in terms of playoffs and the like, but we will attempt to avoid a clash.

"I think we're all looking forward to an England-Scotland final, so let's see how that plays out."