Ryder Cup Awarded to France in 2018

France has beaten competition from Spain in being awarded the right to host the Ryder Cup in 2018

The competition will be played at Le Golf National near Paris, a highly-regarded stadium course famous for its dramatic use of water – particularly on the back nine – and the outstanding spectator viewing.

Spain was the last nation to stage the event in mainland Europe back in 1997 when the late, great Seve Ballesteros captained Europe to a memorable victory at Valderrama.

Many had predicted that Spain would be awarded the hosting rights again in tribute to Ballesteros but instead the French bid – funded in part by a one-euro levy paid by every registered golfer in the country – won out over rival bids including Portugal, Germany and the Netherlands.

The European Tour appear to be preparing to honour the charismatic Spaniard in a different way, however, with a statement on the Tour’s website confirming that they are considering changing the Tour logo to show Ballesteros instead of legendary English golfer Harry Vardon.