The PGA is pleased to confirm that Carden Park in Cheshire will host the 2026 Women’s PGA Cup, marking the first time the international team event has been staged outside the United States. Heather MacRae has been named GB&I Playing Captain, leading her team in a landmark edition of the competition.
The fourth Women’s PGA Cup will take place from 3rd-5th September 2026, as PGA’s from around the world go head-to-head in the biennial match. The PGA of America currently hold the trophy, having claimed victory last time out at Sunriver Resort, Oregon, in 2024.
The competition format differs from the PGA Cup in that each team comprises five PGA-qualified Members from their respective Association’s, playing 18-holes per day across three rounds. Each day, the three lowest scores from a team’s five players contribute to their total, with the lowest 54-hole aggregate determining the champions.
For GB&I, qualification is earned through results across two full playing seasons, which contribute to a points list. Two players will secure their spot through performances in the 2025 and 2026 Women’s PGA Professional Championship, and two more through the 2025 and 2026 WPGA Series. The final spot will be filled by MacRae, marking the first time a playing captain has been appointed by GB&I.
“To represent your Association in a playing capacity is a huge honour, but to do so whilst leading your side is even bigger,” said MacRae.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to play in each of the first three editions of this event, and my focus will be on bringing that experience to help the team succeed in September.
“The pool of players within the WPGA is fantastic – they’re all talented golfers – and I’m confident that whoever makes the team will have what it takes to come out on top. I just want to lead by example and make sure every player enjoys each moment in what promises to be a truly special occasion.”
The matches will be played at the home club of PGA Captain Elect David Llewellyn, who officially takes up his captaincy in March 2026. Hosting the event at his home club will provide a way to celebrate his tenure as he welcomes the three-day contest.
“We are incredibly proud that Carden Park has been selected to host the 2026 Women’s PGA Cup,” said Hamish Ferguson, Director and General Manager of the Cheshire venue.
“This prestigious international event represents the highest standard in women’s professional golf, and we are honoured to welcome competitors and guests from around the world to experience our championship facilities.”
Richard Barker PGA, Executive Director – Business Development, commented:
“It’s a significant milestone for the Women’s PGA Cup to be held outside the United States for the first time and hosting it here carries opportunity as well as responsibility – opening the door for greater engagement from European PGA’s.
“Many congratulations to Heather on making history as our first Playing Captain. Her appointment is richly deserved and her quality, leadership and experience of the Women’s PGA Cup will be a great asset to the team.
“The players will be familiar with Carden Park and the quality it offers. It will be a challenging test, but they will benefit greatly from being led by Heather. It promises to be a very competitive and enjoyable few days of golf.”
To find out more about the Women’s PGA Cup, click here.
To see the current qualifications standings from the Women’s Professional Championship, click here.
To see the current qualifications standings from the WPGA Series, click here.
