Economy Minister And R&A CEO Mark Darbon Discuss Championship Plans Ahead Of The 153rd Open

Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald met with Mark Darbon, CEO of R&A, ahead of The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush to discuss the championship plans for July.

The Minister explained that her Department and Tourism Northern Ireland and Tourism Ireland are part of a Multi-Agency planning and delivery structure dedicated to collaborating with key partners to ensure another successful championship.

This collaboration will also support campaigns to maximise benefits before, during, and after the event.

The Minister said: “The Open returning to Portrush in 2025 is an exciting opportunity which we are working collaboratively to maximise. The 2019 championship generated more than £100 million of combined economic and media benefit for the north and has supported golf tourism in generating over £70m in economic impact in 2024. The 2025 championship therefore promises to once again be of great benefit to local businesses, suppliers, tourism and to again showcase the North Coast across the world.”