The current top three in the Race to Dubai Rankings—John Parry, Johannes Veerman, and Elvis Smylie—are set to continue their stellar early-season form at the Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship, taking place from January 30 to February 2 at the Royal Golf Club.
After a successful return to Bahrain in 2024, the DP World Tour will once again feature this prestigious event as part of its International Swing, with Bapco Energies—a leader in Bahrain’s energy transition—joining as the new title sponsor. Fans can now secure free general admission tickets for this thrilling competition.
Parry, Veerman, and Smylie are scheduled to compete in three consecutive Middle Eastern events, beginning with the Hero Dubai Desert Classic and the Ras Al Khaimah Championship, before heading to Bahrain. The trio will join a star-studded lineup that includes defending champion Dylan Frittelli, Major winners Pádraig Harrington and Jimmy Walker, and DP World Tour stars like Thorbjørn Olesen and Jorge Campillo.

Parry: A Comeback Year
John Parry enters the tournament after a remarkable 2024 season, which saw him climb to the top of the Race to Dubai Rankings. His resurgence was highlighted by a dramatic victory at the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open—his first DP World Tour title in 14 years.
Parry shared his enthusiasm, saying: “I can’t wait to make my debut at the Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship as part of a great run of events in the Middle East. I love playing in the region, so it’s the perfect place to start off the new year. Last year was incredible, and I’m ready for the challenges ahead.”

Smylie: A Rising Star
Elvis Smylie, a 22-year-old Australian, made history as the first winner of the 2025 Race to Dubai with his wire-to-wire victory at the BMW Australian PGA Championship. This win, combined with his maiden professional title on the PGA Tour of Australasia, has cemented Smylie’s place as a rising star in global golf.
Smylie is eager to make his Bahrain debut, saying: “It’s so exciting to take my game around the world and get the chance to add Bahrain to the list of new places I’ll tee it up this season. My first DP World Tour win back home was an important moment, and I’m hoping to continue that form in the Middle East.”

Veerman: Back to Bahrain
Johannes Veerman began his 2025 campaign with a long-awaited victory at the Nedbank Golf Challenge, earning his second DP World Tour title after a three-year drought. His dramatic comeback in South Africa has set the tone for the season ahead.
Reflecting on his return to Bahrain, Veerman said: “I really enjoyed the week at Royal Golf Club last year, and it will be great to head back with a spring in my step after the win in South Africa. This series of events in the Middle East is a fantastic opportunity to build on the momentum.”