Why Camiral Was Chosen Over 12 Other Bidders

The PGA European Tour and PGA of America selected Camiral from a field of 13 competing venues in 2021, citing its “unmatched infrastructure, climate, and logistical advantages.” O’Brien, who acquired Camiral in 2019 through his investment group, Camiral Golf Group, emphasized that the Ryder Cup’s rotation to continental Europe—after decades in the UK and Ireland—aligns with Spain’s growing influence in the sport.

“The Ryder Cup is the pinnacle of team golf,” O’Brien said in an exclusive interview. “When the world’s best players compete here, it will put Caldes de Malavella on the map permanently. We’re not just building a golf course; we’re creating an experience that will attract fans, media, and investors for decades.”

“We want to be the destination where Ryder Cup legends are made—not just played.”

The decision reflects a broader trend: Europe’s Ryder Cup bids are increasingly focusing on Mediterranean climates. While traditional hosts like Muirfield (Scotland) and K Club (Ireland) have dominated, Camiral’s 36-hole layout—designed by Seve Ballesteros and David Leadbetter—offers a year-round advantage, with mild winters and consistent conditions.

The $150 Million Transformation: What’s Changing at Camiral?

To meet Ryder Cup standards, Camiral is undergoing a $150 million overhaul, including:

• A new 18-hole championship course (Course 3) opening in 2026, designed by David McLay Kidd, known for his work at Quail Hollow.
• Expansion of the clubhouse to accommodate 20,000+ spectators, with VIP suites and media facilities.
• Upgrades to the existing 36-hole complex, including bunker and green renovations to PGA Tour specifications.
• A $40 million practice facility with a 200-bay driving range and short-game area.

“This isn’t just about hosting the Ryder Cup—it’s about ensuring Camiral remains a world-class venue long after the event,” said O’Brien. “We’re looking at a model similar to St. Andrews or Pebble Beach, where the course itself becomes a destination.”

How the Ryder Cup Will Boost Spain’s Golf Economy

The Ryder Cup’s economic impact on host regions typically ranges from €200 million to €500 million, according to PGA European Tour data. For Caldes de Malavella—a town of 12,000 residents—this presents both challenges and opportunities.

O’Brien highlighted three key economic drivers:

1. Tourism surge: Spain already ranks as Europe’s second-most-visited golf destination after the UK, but the Ryder Cup could elevate it to the top. Camiral expects a 300% increase in overnight stays during the event week.
2. Investment inflow: The Ryder Cup’s legacy projects (hotels, real estate) could attract €1 billion in private investment, similar to the impact of the 2018 Ryder Cup at Le Golf National in France.
3. Media exposure: The event will air on Sky Sports, ESPN, and TNT Sports, with global viewership projected at 1.2 billion—double the 2023 Presidents Cup audience.

Local authorities in Girona province have already allocated €50 million to infrastructure upgrades, including a new highway link to Barcelona’s airport and expanded public transport to the venue. “This is about more than golf,” said Girona’s regional president, Pere Aragonès. “It’s about positioning Catalonia as a global sports and leisure hub.”

Ryder Cup 2031: What Fans Need to Know

Dates: October 10–13, 2031 (Friday–Monday)

Format: 28 players per team (14 professionals, 14 amateurs), competing in 28-hole matches, fourballs, and foursomes. The event will follow the traditional Ryder Cup structure but with a Catalan twist: the opening ceremony will feature a sardana (traditional dance) performance.

Travel tips:

• Caldes de Malavella is 90 minutes by car from Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN). A direct train line is expected by 2029.
• Accommodation: The town has 1,200 hotel beds, with an additional 5,000 planned by 2030. Early booking is advised.
• Weather: October in Girona averages 20°C (68°F) with low rainfall—ideal for golf.

Ticket updates: Sales will open in 2029 via the official Ryder Cup website. General admission starts at €150, with VIP packages exceeding €5,000.

Camiral’s Long-Term Vision: Beyond the Ryder Cup

O’Brien’s ambition extends far beyond 2031. Camiral is targeting three major tournaments annually by 2035:

1. The DP World Tour event (2027)
2. A LET tournament (2028)
3. An Amateur World Championship (2030)

The club is also developing a luxury resort with 200 villas, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. “Our goal is to create a year-round destination that competes with Marbella or the French Riviera,” O’Brien said. “Golf is the gateway, but the experience should be unforgettable.”

Key takeaways:

• Camiral’s Ryder Cup bid was chosen for its climate, design, and logistical readiness.
• The $150 million expansion will make it one of Europe’s most advanced golf venues.
• Spain aims to surpass the UK as Europe’s top golf destination by 2035.
• Fans should book early—accommodation and tickets will sell out quickly.

How to Follow Camiral’s Progress

For updates on Camiral’s construction and Ryder Cup preparations:

• Official Camiral Website (construction timelines, events)
• Ryder Cup Official Site (ticket sales, team announcements)
• PGA European Tour (tournament news)

Next checkpoint: Course 3’s groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for September 2024. The first Ryder Cup practice rounds will be held in October 2030.