Play got underway at the Bapco Energies Bahrain Championship on Thursday, further cementing the event’s growing stature on the Middle East sporting calendar. The tournament teed off at Bahrain Royal Golf Club with triple Major champion Pádraig Harrington headlining a deep DP World Tour field.

Global stars and emerging talents shared the fairways as the Championship continued its mission to blend elite competition with long-term development. Harrington said returning to Bahrain remains a highlight, noting the increasing buzz around golf in the region.

The Irish legend also welcomed confirmation that the tournament will remain in the kingdom for the next decade. A long-term agreement between the DP World Tour and the Bahrain Olympic Committee secures the event’s place on the schedule until at least 2036.

Building a long-term sporting legacy

Now in its third year under the patronage of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, the Championship is one of seven events on the DP World Tour’s International Swing. Organisers say the event plays a key role in strengthening Bahrain’s global sporting profile.

Bahrain Olympic Committee Executive Director of Operations Ahmed Abdulghaffar said the tournament reflects the country’s progress in building an internationally respected sporting ecosystem. He added that the Championship leaves a lasting legacy by inspiring future generations to engage with sport.

Last year’s edition attracted visitors from more than 170 countries and generated over $10.5 million in economic impact. DP World Tour Head of Championships and Business Development in the Middle East Freddie Schmeisser said the event continues to strengthen Bahrain’s position as a destination for both tourism and business.

Environmental sustainability also remains a central focus. Solar-powered hospitality units and battery systems are projected to save an estimated 13,400 kilograms of CO₂ compared to 2025, while free water refill stations have been installed across the course to reduce plastic waste.

Strong field and local representation

On the course, Harrington was joined by former champion Dylan Frittelli, current International Swing leader Jayden Schaper and reigning Sir Henry Cotton Rookie of the Year Martin Couvra. Multiple DP World Tour winners Paul Waring, Rafa Cabrera Bello and Bernd Wiesberger were also in contention.

Further depth was added by Thriston Lawrence, Pablo Larrazábal and Ewen Ferguson, while 17-year-old Yanhan Zhou made his first DP World Tour start outside China. The diverse field underlined the Championship’s growing international reach.

Local interest was boosted by the inclusion of Bahraini players Ahmed Alzayed, Khalifa Almaraisi and Ali Mohamed Alkowari. The trio qualified through the national system and are part of ongoing efforts to increase local participation and provide high-level competitive experience.

Larrazábal praised Bahrain’s commitment to growing the game, saying exposure to elite tournaments helps accelerate development in emerging golf markets. Organisers say strengthening grassroots pathways remains a priority alongside hosting world-class events.

The course record of 61, set last year by Brandon Robinson-Thompson, remains the target. Any player who breaks it this week will earn a $70,000 bonus through the Nexo initiative, with the total prize fund standing at $2.75 million.

Away from the fairways, fans can enjoy the Championship Village, featuring a 100-metre zip line, kids’ zone, live music, a traditional Bahraini souq, and a wide range of food and beverage options.