PGA Tour 2026 Playoffs: Everything You Need to Know

The PGA Tour is gearing up for a monumental transformation in 2026, following the conclusion of its 2025 playoffs. As a prominent authority in golf reporting, we’re breaking down the most significant changes in the schedule that promise to shake things up for players and fans alike. This article touches on ten pivotal updates that will shape the future of professional golf, not just for 2026, but for years to come.

1. Return to Doral: A Historic Venue

One of the most talked-about aspects of the upcoming PGA Tour schedule is the return to Doral, President Trump’s golf resort, for the Miami Championship. This event will be held from April 27 to May 3, marking the first time the PGA Tour has returned to this venue since Trump’s presidency began in 2016. The Miami Championship has been designated as a Signature Event, a status that places it among the most prestigious tournaments on the calendar.

2. Nine Signature Events: A Busy Landscape

With the addition of Doral to the schedule, the PGA Tour now boasts nine Signature Events. These highly coveted tournaments allow top players to secure both ranking points and prize money. Notably, the CJ Cup Byron Nelson has been replaced on the calendar, leading to an accelerated concentration of high-stakes events.

3. Intense Competition: Strategic Skips Ahead

Given the packed schedule, top players may face tough decisions in 2026. Following the Masters, players will tackle five major events within a mere six weeks. This lineup includes the Masters, RBC Heritage, Zurich Classic, Miami Championship, Truist Championship, and the PGA Championship. The intense competition could lead to more strategic skips, particularly for those without Signature Event privileges.

4. The Dallas Double: A Cost-Effective Solution

Texas golf enthusiasts can look forward to a unique DFW double-feature in 2026. The CJ Cup Byron Nelson follows immediately after the PGA Championship, allowing players to compete at TPC Craig Ranch in McKinney before heading to Fort Worth for the Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial. This scheduling provides practical benefits, such as reduced travel costs for players who can stay in the area.

5. Super Bowl Double: A Festive Weekend

February 2026 will be a festive time for both golf and sports lovers, as the reshuffled WM Phoenix Open is set to coincide with the Super Bowl in Santa Clara, California. Many top golfers may find themselves in a prime position to participate in both the tournament and the big game, creating a unique blend of golf and entertainment.

6. Back-to-Back Signature Events: Pebble and Riviera

Following the WM Phoenix Open, two Signature Events—The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the Genesis Invitational—are slated for consecutive weeks. Both tournaments take place on championship-caliber golf courses, ensuring high-level competition that many players will want to be a part of.

7. Quail Hollow: A Glorious Return

While Quail Hollow never left the tour schedule, it has undergone some recent shifts. Following the 2025 PGA Championship, the Truist Championship will return to Quail Hollow, while the PGA will be hosted at Aronimink in Philadelphia. Quail Hollow remains a hallmark venue, acclaimed for its layout and facilities, making it a perennial favorite among players.

8. Bellerive: A Playoff Powerhouse

The famed Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis will be making a comeback as the host for the BMW Championship, offering fans another memorable playoff experience. This venue previously showcased the PGA Championship in 2018 and continues to garner attention for its picturesque setting and challenging course.

9. Farewell to an Event: Barracuda Championship Gone

In a significant shift, the Barracuda Championship, known for its unique Stableford scoring system, will not be part of the 2026 schedule. Previously held in mid-July opposite the Open Championship in Lake Tahoe, this decision leaves fans longing for the event’s distinctive qualities. The Corales Puntacana Championship will replace it, signaling an ongoing evolution in the Tour’s lineup.

10. Shifting Calendars: New Venue Adjustments

Several events will see major changes in 2026, most notably the Mexico Open, which transitions to the fall portion of the schedule. The Rocket Classic is also moving to become the penultimate event in the regular season, leading into the playoffs. This adjustment presents an opportunity for players to accumulate crucial points before the season’s culmination.

Conclusion: What Lies Ahead

As we prepare for the 2026 PGA Tour season, it’s essential to acknowledge these changes and how they will shape the competitive landscape. The return of notable venues, increased Signature Events, and strategic scheduling will undoubtedly enhance the excitement around professional golf. Fans can expect a thrilling year ahead, filled with unforgettable moments, impressive performances, and significant challenges for top players.

In conclusion, the upcoming PGA Tour season is set to redefine golf as we know it, fostering fresh rivalries and intensifying competition. Keep an eye on your favorite golfers as they navigate this dynamic schedule, and prepare for a year of exceptional play and thrilling contests.