PGA Tour Unveils Two-Tiered System with Promotion and Relegation Starting in 2028

The PGA Tour announced sweeping changes to its competitive structure, set to take effect in the 2028 season. Under the new model, the tour will operate two distinct series: the top-tier Championship Series, featuring 23 to 24 events with purses of at least $20 million, and the second-tier Challenger Series, with a minimum of 20 events and purses of at least $4 million. The system introduces promotion and relegation, where the top 90 players on the Championship Series points list retain their status, while those finishing lower are relegated to the Challenger Series. At least 20 players will be promoted from the Challenger Series each year.

Key features of the overhaul include the elimination of sponsor exemptions in the Championship Series to emphasize meritocracy and the reintroduction of match play in the postseason. The Tour Championship will rotate among iconic venues, such as Pine Valley and Cypress Point, and incorporate match-play formats. PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp stated the changes aim to provide clearer stakes and ensure the best players compete together more often. The plan, developed by a committee chaired by Tiger Woods, seeks to address fan feedback and modernize the sport amidst ongoing competition from LIV Golf.