Government cash to tee up Scottish Open ‘to go from strength to strength’

Scottish Government cash of more than £6 million will help ensure a leading golf tournament goes “from strength to strength”, business minister Richard Lochhead has said.

The three-year funding package worth a total of £6.3 million will help continue development of the Genesis Scottish Open.

The tournament takes place every July at the Renaissance Club in North Berwick, East Lothian, and with the event held the week before the Open Championship it attracts some of golf’s biggest stars.

Last year’s Scottish Open attracted a record crowd of almost 90,000, and independent analysis has estimated the 2024 event generated £19.2 million for the economy, supporting 234 jobs.

Mr Lochhead said the Government’s investment “will help ensure the tournament continues to go from strength to strength, attracting the very best players while delivering significant economic and tourism benefits for Scotland”.

He added: “Scotland is the home of golf and this world-class event showcases to millions of fans around the globe exactly why we have that reputation.

“Over the next three years, the Genesis Scottish Open, along with other major sporting events, will raise Scotland’s global profile, support jobs and communities and inspire the next generation of sportspeople.”

Genesis Scottish Open director Rory Colville said the support of both the Government and tourism body VisitScotland is “incredibly important”.

He added: “The eyes of the golfing world – and beyond – are on Scotland each summer as some of the biggest stars of the game gather in the home of golf, and we are passionate about working with our partners to provide a warm welcome to everyone who joins us at the Renaissance Club, showcasing Scotland as a sporting destination to those watching from around the world.”

Rob Dickson, director of industry and events at VisitScotland, said: “The Genesis Scottish Open draws thousands of visitors from around the world each year, playing a key role in growing Scotland’s visitor economy and raising the country’s international profile, while also delivering meaningful social and environmental benefits.

“Our long-standing involvement in the tournament reflects our commitment to showcasing the country as the perfect stage for events, through a diverse portfolio of sporting and cultural experiences.”