Portugal’s golf is expected to attract even more international attention after the European Golf Association confirmed new awards associated with the 2026 European Amateur Order of Merit. The initiative sets up a single ranking system for amateur players all over Europe and makes a straight path from top amateur competitions to the professional game. The news is especially important for Portugal because the new ranking calendar will begin with two big tournaments in the country.
Starting in 2026, the European Golf Association (EGA) will oversee the European Amateur Order of Merit for both male and female golfers. The goal is clear: to make Europe’s top amateur events better and bring the best players in the world to them. The top performers will get direct invites to the European Amateur Championships and to play on professional tours such as the DP World Tour, the HotelPlanner Tour, the Ladies European Tour, and LETAS. This structure strengthens the bridge between doing excellent work as a hobby and getting career opportunities.
From the very beginning of the season, Portugal will be very important. The Portuguese Golf Federation organises the international championships, which are the first events that players can use to prepare for the men’s and women’s world rankings. This puts the country at the top of European amateur golf and makes it even more well-known as a place that is strongly connected to the sport at every level.
The 96th Portuguese International Ladies’ Amateur Championship will be held at Penina Hotel & Golf Resort from January 28 to 31, kicking off the women’s calendar. The person who wins will get a ticket to the Vidago Ladies Open on the LETAS circuit, which will have its second season later this year. The men’s game comes next, with the 96th Portuguese International Amateur Championship happening at Amendoeira Resort from February 11 to 14. The winner will get a prized ticket to the Open de Portugal on the HotelPlanner Tour, which will be held at PGA Aroeira 1 in September 2026.
These events show why golfers, federations, and fans from all over Europe keep coming to play golf in Portugal. The country is a great place for competitive golf because it has good courses, strong organisation, and playing weather all year round. For players who travel, this same setting naturally leads to unforgettable golf holidays in Portugal, which has many welcoming resorts in different areas with great courses.
Portugal’s place in the amateur game is better than ever as the European Amateur Order of Merit comes together. Having the first events of the season take place in your area is not only a privilege for the sport, but it also shows that the country has supported golf for a long time. Portugal is still a place where players and tourists can compete, improve, and enjoy the game all at the same time.
