The PGA Tour has finalized details for its promotion and relegation system, set to begin in 2028.
On September 16, the PGA Tour announced the membership categories for the new 'PGA Tour Championship Series' and the qualifications for the lower-tier 'PGA Tour Challenger Series,' which will replace the current competitive structure.
The key feature is the annual promotion and relegation system between the two series. The Championship Series will feature an average of 120 players. After the season concludes, the top 90 players in points will retain their membership for the following season. Among those who do not make the top 90, 20 players will be relegated to the Challenger Series, while the top 20 from the Challenger Series will be promoted to the Championship Series.
There will also be pathways for promotion during the season. Players in the Challenger Series who achieve two or more wins in a season can be promoted to the Championship Series mid-season. Additionally, the player who finishes first in the PGA Tour college rankings after the NCAA Championship will receive immediate entry into the Championship Series.
The benefits for winning major tournaments will be reduced. Previously, major champions received a five-year exemption, but starting with the 2027 major winners, they will only receive a two-year exemption. After the introduction of the Championship Series, the exemption period for major tournaments will align with that of regular events. Winners of Championship Series events will be guaranteed entry for the current season and the following two seasons. However, players who secure a five-year exemption by winning a major tournament this year will retain their rights.
A new 'Last Chance Series' will also be established, providing opportunities outside of regular promotions. This series will consist of at least four events held in the fall, featuring players relegated from the Championship Series, those remaining in the Challenger Series, players promoted from the Korn Ferry Tour, top performers from PGA Q School, and college players ranked 2nd to 5th, competing for three spots in the Championship Series.
Brian Loughnane, CEO of the PGA Tour, stated, "From the beginning, our goal has been to uphold the unique competitive principle of golf, where opportunities are awarded based on performance. Through the new eligibility criteria and various pathways to the PGA Tour, we aim to reward outstanding achievements and provide a clear path for players to advance to the next level, regardless of where they are in their careers. Fans will have a clearer understanding of what players are competing for at each event and throughout the season."
In the final season under the current system in 2027, the criteria for entry will also change. Currently, players ranked up to 100 in the FedEx Cup standings earn entry for the next season, but in 2027, players must finish in the top 95 to qualify for the 2028 Championship Series.
Meanwhile, the PGA Tour will kick off its fall series on September 17 with the Biltmore Championship, featuring eight events over ten weeks. Players must finish in the top 100 of the FedEx Cup standings after the fall series to secure eligibility for 2027.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.