Scottish Open to return to Castle Stuart in 2012

16th November 2011

The Highland Council is delighted to learn that the Scottish Open will return to Castle Stuart Golf Links near Inverness in the week prior to The Open Championship next year.

The confirmation of the date and venue will be part of The European Tour's announcement of the second portion of the 2012 International Schedule which will be made in Dubai next month.

While the Tour is actively seeking a new title sponsor of the Scottish Open to replace Barclays, who withdrew their backing earlier this year, the resounding success of the 2011 tournament at its most northerly venue has ensured the event will return there from July 12-15, 2012.

Luke Donald of England captured the title last year to consolidate his status as World Number One in a glittering season which also saw him capture the BMW PGA Championship, establish a commanding lead in The Race to Dubai and top of the US PGA Tour money list.

European Tour Chief Operating Officer, Keith Waters, said: "Despite the inclement weather on the Saturday, we had a superb tournament over a course which received great praise from the players. The Scottish Open has traditionally enjoyed one of the strongest dates on the calendar, coming one week before The Open when all the best golfers in the world are assembling in the UK. We are continuing our search for a new title sponsor, but we are confident that by returning to Castle Stuart we can expect another outstanding tournament. We would anticipate that prize money will be along similar lines to 2011. Phil Mickelson has already indicated that he would wish to return to play in Scotland and we are hopeful that Luke Donald will also return to defend his title."

Council Convener Sandy Park said: "This is terrific news for the Highlands, which benefited so greatly last year from hosting such a presitigious event, beamed to a television audience of more than 400 million.

"I am absolutely thrilled that the European Tour has confirmed Castle Stuart as the venue for 2012. We wish them well in finding a sponsor and give them an assurance of our continued commitment and support for this top sporting event."