RACE TO DUBAI 2010 IN DOUBT

Reports that the Dubai company Jumerai Golf Estates is experiencing financial difficulties, raises doubts over the immediate future of the European Tour’s 2010 season. The prize fund for the 2009 race had already been reduced by 25%, ostensibly at the instigation of the European Tour in recognition of the inappropriateness of such huge sums of money being offered at a time when the world and its dog are having to suffer the effects of the global economic recession.
However, even the oil-rich Arab nations are feeling the pinch, and if Dubai is forced to withdraw from its 5 year sponsorship contract, the Race to Dubai, which incorporates the Harry Vardon Trophy traditionally awarded to the winner of the European order of merit, will be difficult to replace if another super-rich sponsor cannot be found. An outlay of more than $10 million will be hard to justify in the current economic climate, despite the undoubted success of the Race to Dubai’s inaurgural year. Lee Westwood’s record jackpot for this year’s finale could remain a record for many years to come.

Tags: Dubai, Golf Tournament