Presidents Cup News – June

Following the announcement made by International Team Captain Geoff Ogilvy that Camilo Villegas will return as a captain’s assistant for the 2026 Presidents Cup and the selection by U.S. Team Captain Brandt Snedeker that Jim Furyk and Keegan Bradley have been tapped as captain’s assistants for the 2026 Presidents Cup, construction and infrastructure buildout for the Presidents Cup, which began in April, will continue throughout the summer as Medinah Country Club prepares to host the biennial Presidents Cup competition during the week of September 22-27.

By the time event week in September arrives, Medinah Country Club will be transformed into a world-class sporting venue capable of hosting tens of thousands of spectators each day from Tuesday to Sunday. In total, more than 560,000 square feet of flooring will be installed across the property to support hospitality, fan zones and operational facilities.

Just recently, Presidents Cup tournament officials shared an early look at fan experiences and event updates which are designed to showcase the culture of Chicago.

The Presidents Cup will deliver a Chicago-inspired experience with the placement of five ‘Windy City Themed Fan Zones’ integrated throughout the course, each reflecting the energy, character, and pride of different city neighborhoods. The Loop (between 1 Tee and 18 Fairway), Southside (between 5 and 6 Fairways), West Town (behind 11 Tee and 10 Green), Lakeview (between 12 Green and 13 Tee), and Northside (adjacent to 15 Fairway) will feature food and beverage offerings inspired by Chicago’s iconic culinary scene, giving spectators an authentic taste of the city.

Data from past Presidents Cups shows that less than 40 percent of matches make it to the 17th hole, hence the re-routing of Course No. 3 has been specifically designed to enhance competitive drama and spectator experience, with the updated routing ensuring that the course’s iconic finishing stretch plays a pivotal role in the matches.

To maximize fan engagement, both on-site and in broadcast, the following adjustments to Medinah’s famous Course #3 have been made:

Member No. 5 becomes Presidents Cup No. 1
Member No. 18 becomes Presidents Cup No. 14
Member No. 1 becomes Presidents Cup No. 15
Member No. 2 becomes Presidents Cup No. 16
Member No. 3 becomes Presidents Cup No. 17
Member No. 4 becomes Presidents Cup No. 18

Adding to the event’s Chicago flair, renowned vocalist Jim Cornelison will perform the National Anthem during the Opening Ceremony on Thursday, September 24. Best known as the longtime anthem singer for the Chicago Blackhawks and for opening the Chicago Bears season each fall, Cornelison has become one of the city’s most recognizable ceremonial performers, bringing a sense of pride, tradition, and excitement to major sporting events.

For more information about the Presidents Cup, please visit www.PresidentsCup.com.