ORLANDO, Fla.
The 2026 Arnold Palmer Cup will take place July 3–5 at Ireland’s Tralee Golf Club, marking the 30th staging of the event. Founded in 1997, the Ryder Cup-style competition features U.S. men’s and women’s collegiate golfers playing side-by-side against a team of their International counterparts. Team USA leads the all-time series 15-13-1.
Longtime Arnold Palmer partner Rolex will continue its more than 50-year relationship with the brand through its support of the matches.
“We look forward to welcoming the world’s best collegiate golfers to Tralee Golf Club to play boldly and honor the legacy of Arnold Palmer,” said Amy Palmer Saunders, Board Chair of the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation. “In addition to introducing the next generation of young golf talent, this tournament celebrates camaraderie, honor and integrity — the qualities of good character that make a true champion.”
About Tralee Golf Club
Tralee Golf Club, perched dramatically on the Atlantic cliffs at West Barrow near Tralee, County Kerry, is one of Ireland’s premier championship links courses. Designed by legendary golfer Arnold Palmer, the course offers an unparalleled playing experience that blends natural beauty with a world-class challenge.
Since relocating to its current site at Barrow in October 1984, Tralee has occupied a location ideally suited for links golf, featuring towering dunes, undulating fairways, and cliff-top tees with breathtaking ocean views. The front nine runs along the cliffs, highlighted by the dramatic par-5 second hole and the picturesque par-3 third. The back nine winds through rugged dunes, delivering a thrilling challenge that includes the unforgettable 16th hole and a dramatic finishing stretch.
As the first European course designed by Arnold Palmer, Tralee holds a special place in his legacy. Palmer famously remarked:
“I may have designed the first nine, but surely God designed the back nine.”
A statue of Palmer by sculptor Zenos Frudakis stands near the first tee, honoring his vision and contribution to the game. A twin statue stands at Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.
Tralee consistently ranks among the world’s finest links courses and is widely recognized as a must-play destination for golf travellers and a cornerstone of any Irish golf itinerary.
Club Leadership Statements
“We are absolutely delighted and deeply honoured to host the 2026 Arnold Palmer Cup at Tralee Golf Club,” said Chairperson Brian Mehigan. “This prestigious event is a perfect match for our world-renowned links, and we look forward to welcoming the world’s best collegiate players to our spectacular course on the Atlantic.”
General Manager Maurice O’Meara added:
“It’s a privilege for our club to play a part in continuing Arnold Palmer’s incredible legacy. We eagerly anticipate showing players, coaches, and fans from around the world the warmth of our welcome and the unforgettable challenge of links golf at Tralee.”
Facilities and Club Overview
In addition to its championship course, Tralee Golf Club offers outstanding facilities, including:
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State-of-the-art practice academy with advanced training technology
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Par-3 short course
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Indoor simulator
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Driving range
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Clubhouse with panoramic views and fine dining
Founded in 1896 and relocated to its current home in 1984, Tralee Golf Club has evolved into one of Ireland’s most distinguished golf venues. The club has more than 1,300 members and is renowned for its rich history, dramatic setting, and unwavering commitment to the game of golf.
For more information about the Palmer Cup, visit arnoldpalmercup.com.
About the Arnold Palmer Cup
The Arnold Palmer Cup was co-founded by Arnold Palmer and the Golf Coaches Association of America (GCAA) and began in 1997 at Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando, Florida. The event is a Ryder Cup-style competition featuring the top men’s and women’s university and collegiate golfers representing the United States against an International team.
The Palmer Cup has been contested at some of the world’s most prestigious golf courses, including The Old Course at St. Andrews, Royal County Down, Royal Portrush, Baltusrol, The Honors Course, Cherry Hills, and Lahinch. Beginning with the 2018 matches at Evian Resort Golf Club, the Palmer Cup became the only major tournament featuring men and women competing side-by-side as partners.
Since its inception:
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Over 245 alumni have earned PGA, DP World, or LPGA Tour cards
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46 have represented Europe/International or the United States in the Ryder Cup, Presidents Cup, or Solheim Cup
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More than 95 alumni have claimed over 435 professional victories worldwide
The United States leads the Palmer Cup series 15-13-1.
More than a showcase of golf skill, the Palmer Cup emphasizes character, integrity, and sportsmanship in alignment with the principles of its founder and the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation.
About the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation
The Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation continues the Palmer family’s mission to champion youth health and development. Through initiatives supporting character development, well-being, and access to opportunity through golf and nature-focused programs, the foundation remains committed to keeping the Palmer legacy at the forefront of golf and society.
Learn more at palmerfoundation.org.
Rolex and the Arnold Palmer Cup
Rolex has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to golf for more than 50 years. The partnership began in 1967 when Rolex partnered with Arnold Palmer, making him the first official Rolex Golf Testimony.
Since then, Rolex has built enduring relationships across all levels of the sport, from governing bodies to elite players. Its partnership with the Arnold Palmer Cup represents a natural extension of this legacy and a tribute to Palmer’s lasting influence on the game.
About Rolex
Rolex is an integrated and independent Swiss watch manufacturer headquartered in Geneva. The brand is recognized globally for excellence, precision, and prestige. Rolex movements are certified by COSC and tested in-house to ensure precision, reliability, and performance.
The Superlative Chronometer certification, symbolized by the green seal, confirms each watch meets Rolex’s rigorous standards. Throughout its history, Rolex has registered more than 500 patents and pioneered major innovations, including the Oyster waterproof case (1926) and the Perpetual self-winding rotor (1931).
About Nike
Nike is the exclusive footwear, apparel, headwear, and glove supplier of the Arnold Palmer Cup. Its mission is to expand human potential through groundbreaking sport innovations, sustainable manufacturing, a diverse global workforce, and positive community impact.
