The symbolism of the venue was not lost on any spectator. As picturesque Tower Bridge’s bascules steadily ascended to enable tall-masted vessels on the Thames to leisurely proceed on their course, Guy Kinnings – the newly appointed CEO of the European Tour – was elaborating on his envisioned trajectory for men’s professional golf, a sport now disjointed due to the entry of LIV Golf.
Kinnings boasts of a lengthy history in the realm of sports. Previously, during his stint with IMG, he was the manager for Colin Montgomerie. Upon joining the European Tour (now DP World Tour), he assumed responsibility for orchestrating last year’s Ryder Cup in Rome. Early this month, he stepped into the top position left vacant by his predecessor, Keith Pelley, who returned to Canada to assume the role of CEO for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Given Kinnings’ past legal experience, his latest role seems well suited for him. He stated, “The immediate task is to address one particular issue, from which all the other matters will naturally arise… we must find a resolution regarding how the future of the sport pans out…this proves to be the crux of every discussion. My aim is to assembles the right individuals who will engage in meaningful dialogue about possible future scenarios.”
Kinnings added: “I am not expecting definitive answers to every query. What I am interested in knowing is what the sport might look like in 2026 and beyond. What’s the roadmap? A mutually agreeable strategy or deal can only be forged when the right parties, with the right intentions, share a platform and work collaboratively. And that’s exactly what the sector requires at this point.”
It is quite astonishing that such a meeting hasn’t yet materialised between the PGA Tour, the Sports Strategic Group (a group of American sports team proprietors led by the Fenway Sports Group), the Saudi Arabia PIF, and the DP World Tour to collectively brainstorm possible solutions.
Kinnings perceives the possibility of worldwide unity as an enormous prospect, which resonates perfectly with our overall mission. The target is to forge a global, unified pathway, reassemble the players and expedite this process as swiftly as possible. While Kinnings recognises he cannot modify the past or elaborate in-depth about it, his focus is on steering these objectives into reality.
The recent move made by Rory McIlroy to re-enlist on the PGA Tour’s policy board is one that Kinnings regards as greatly beneficial, particularly in supporting the European perspective. The advantage of having such an articulate European figure who’s equipped with extensive knowledge is extremely valuable to their cause. Kinnings recalls a prior discussion he had with McIlroy when he initially relinquished his board position. Evidently, McIlroy is someone reputed for his dedication and commitment, often sacrificing his rest for board meetings, then displaying his prowess during pro-am games.
Kinnings believes the importance of McIlroy’s involvement is significant. Having the right individuals involved are vital to invite all participants to the negotiation table. The main hurdle, Kinnings observes, is to kickstart these negotiations. Although he has no control over the procedure, Kinnings can only advocate for it, as he is certain McIlroy and others will.
Kinnings also anticipates scenarios in which Jon Rahm or Tyrrell Hatton, who have recently defected to LIV, may still represent Europe in the Ryder Cup at Bethpage the following year without having to alter the qualification rules.
Kinnings clarified some misunderstandings surrounding the eligibility requirements for the 2023 edition, asserting that there’s been a bit of confusion. As per the existing guidelines, European players, who are a part of the DP World Tour and conform to its rules, are suitable for qualification. There are penalties for failing to acquire a release, but accepting these sanctions and managing them will not inhibit players who maintain LIV membership and DP World Tour status from qualifying or being nominated for selection. Kinnings emphasised that this understanding does not exploit any “loophole”.