Turkish Airlines has reaffirmed its commitment to global sports by signing a new three-year title sponsorship deal for the prestigious Turkish Airlines Open golf tournament. The airline's Chief Executive Officer, Bilal Ekşi, highlighted the powerful role sports play in bringing people together and fostering international unity.
Tournament Details and Significance
The 2026 Turkish Airlines Open is scheduled to take place from 30 April to 3 May 2026. The event will be hosted at the renowned National Golf Club in Antalya, which is part of the Regnum Hotels complex. This tournament is a critical fixture on the professional golf calendar, serving as the fifth and final event of the Asian Swing. This swing constitutes the opening phase of the DP World Tour 2026 season.
With a substantial prize pool of $2.75 million, the competition attracts top talent from around the globe. The defending champion, young French golfer Martin Couvra, who won the title in 2025, is set to return to Türkiye to defend his championship.
Leadership Perspectives on the Deal
Commenting on the sponsorship renewal, Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi expressed pride in supporting such a high-profile international event. He stated that the tournament underscores the unifying force of sport and aligns with Türkiye's ambition to be a global center for both sports and tourism. Ekşi emphasized the airline's ongoing dedication to supporting athletes and enhancing the nation's brand value on the world stage.
Yıldırım Demirören, President of the Turkish Golf Federation, welcomed the tournament's continued inclusion in Europe's top-tier 2026 professional golf schedule. He noted that the 2026 event builds on the successful return of the Turkish Airlines Open to the DP World Tour in 2025, further cementing Türkiye's position in international golf.
Venue and Future Outlook
The National Golf Club, a venue designed by former Ryder Cup player David Feherty and Seniors Tour player David Jones, has been instrumental in developing Antalya's golf tourism since 1994. Its General Manager, Hasan Ceylan, conveyed great pride in hosting the Turkish Airlines Open for the first time in 2026.
Mark Casey, DP World Tour Director of Tournament Business, also welcomed the extended partnership with Turkish Airlines. He confirmed the tournament's return to the Race to Dubai in 2026 and praised the National Golf Club for providing a challenging course for players, thanking the venue for its consistent support and hospitality.
This major agreement signals a continued investment in sports tourism, promising to bring athletes and enthusiasts worldwide to Antalya, showcasing the region's world-class facilities and hospitality.
