The 2026 Irish Open is underway at Trump International Golf Links & Hotel in County Clare, marking the first time the venue has hosted the tournament. Rory McIlroy, a six-time major winner, is defending his title after securing his second Irish Open victory last year at The K Club.
McIlroy won the 2025 Irish Open in a play-off against Joakim Lagergren, sinking a 25-foot eagle putt on the 72nd hole to force the play-off and eventually prevailing on the third extra hole.
US President Donald Trump, who owns the Doonbeg venue, is expected to attend the Irish Open. He will be in Ireland for a two-day visit, during which he is scheduled to meet Irish President Catherine Connolly and hold a bilateral meeting with Taoiseach Micheal Martin. Trump is expected to arrive on Saturday and may present the winner's trophy on Sunday evening.
The field includes other notable players such as two-time major winner Jon Rahm, Shane Lowry, Tom McKibbin, Padraig Harrington, and Seamus Power. Several LIV Golf players, including McKibbin, Tyrrell Hatton, and Joaquin Niemann, are also participating. The tournament precedes the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth, scheduled for next week.