Rory McIlroy has confirmed he will play the DP World Tour Championship at Jumeirah Golf Estates from November 12-15. The seven-time champion’s Race to Dubai bid could see him draw level with Colin Montgomerie’s record of eight Harry Vardon Trophies.
McIlroy closing in on Reed in the Race to Dubai
The reigning European Number One currently sits second in the Race to Dubai Rankings Delivered by DP World. However, leader Patrick Reed is firmly in his sights, and the American is also confirmed for the season finale.
McIlroy more than halved the gap to Reed at last month’s BMW PGA Championship. A closing 68 at Wentworth Club earned him a share of second place in the DP World Tour’s flagship event.
A historic year for the World Number Two
McIlroy returns to Dubai on the back of a remarkable 2026. Having completed the career Grand Slam at Augusta National last year, he successfully defended the Green Jacket in April.
As a result, he became only the fourth back-to-back Masters champion, joining Jack Nicklaus, Sir Nick Faldo and Tiger Woods.
Furthermore, the 37-year-old has a formidable record on the Earth course. He has won the DP World Tour Championship three times, in 2012, 2015 and 2024.
“Getting to eight and drawing level with Monty would mean a lot”
“I’ve always loved coming to Dubai and I’ve had some great days on the Earth course, so I’m really looking forward to being back for the DP World Tour Championship,” said McIlroy, a 21-time winner on the DP World Tour.
“Getting to eight and drawing level with Monty would mean a lot. He was an amazing player to watch when I was growing up, and the Race to Dubai is something I’ve always taken a lot of pride in. To have the opportunity to win it again, and potentially match Monty’s record, would be a pretty special way to finish the season.”
DP World Tour Championship tickets
Now in its 18th year, the DP World Tour Championship is one of Dubai’s leading sporting and social events. Entry is free on Thursday November 12 with pre-registration.
General Admission tickets for Friday to Sunday start from AED 160. In addition, children aged 17 and under go free on all four days, although their tickets must still be registered in advance. Groups of eight or more can also save with discounted General Admission tickets.
After a successful launch last year, the 1st Tee Experience returns as an add-on to General Admission. It gives fans a dedicated viewing area overlooking the opening tee shots, with complimentary refreshments.
Premium hospitality on the closing holes
Fans who want to elevate their day can upgrade to Ticket+. This includes access to The Greatest Bar on Earth, which overlooks the 17th green.
Alternatively, there are two premium experiences on the closing holes:
- Championship Chalet: Set on the 18th green, it offers a front-row view of the end of each round. Guests enjoy five-star catering, free-flowing drinks all day and exclusive access to a viewing platform on the 1st tee.
- Earth Lounge: Located on the 16th green, it provides a more relaxed setting for the closing stages. Food is served throughout the day, with free-flowing drinks in the afternoon.
Championship Village: a full day out
Away from the course, the Championship Village offers entertainment for fans of all ages. There are dedicated kids’ zones, free golf lessons, trick-shot shows, big screens and sports activations. Meanwhile, Saturday is Ladies Day and Sunday is Family Day.
To register for free Thursday tickets and explore all ticket options, including premium experiences, visit dpwtc.com.
