UK Officials Lobby for 2028 Open at Turnberry

Senior UK government officials, specifically from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), have directly inquired with the R&A about the possibility of hosting the 2028 Open Championship at Donald Trump's Turnberry golf course, following persistent requests from Trump. Government and R&A spokespeople maintain that no official pressure has been applied and that the venue decision process remains independent. The R&A has cited logistical challenges, the need for significant investment, and concerns about political controversy—particularly linked to the fallout from the January 6 Capitol attack—as reasons for caution. The Trump family continues to advocate for Turnberry's selection, emphasizing the course's historic reputation and potential for a memorable event. Turnberry has not hosted the Open since Trump's 2014 acquisition and is unlikely to do so before the end of a possible second Trump presidency. The situation reflects the complex intersection of sport, politics, and international relations as UK-US trade negotiations continue.