As the process to select the host for The 2022 Ryder Cup comes to a crescendo, the political leadership behind Spain’s candidature has reiterated its unanimous support for the bid.
On behalf of Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, Vice President of the Spanish Government, Soraya Sáenz de Santamaría, spoke in Parliament to confirm the Spanish Cabinet’s full support of the Costa Brava-Barcelona candidacy to host The Ryder Cup in 2022.
“Once again, Spain supports Catalunya in bidding to host an international event,” said Saenz de Santamaria, stating that “the Cabinet wants the tournament to be held in Europe, Spain and Girona.”
The commitments confirmed by the Vice President included “a declaration of exceptional public interest for the event, full support of and to tournament delivery partners and unequivocal guarantees of a top quality venue to Ryder Cup Europe.”
The backing of the Central Government gives extensive tax incentives to the event and provides unprecedented support for over a decade of golf events across Spain.
During a visit to the Catalunya Golf Federation, Secretary of State for Sport, Miguel Cardenal, told assembled local golf directors: “the Government of Spain has taken extensive steps to make this application a success, with guarantees close to 100 million euros over the next 12 years.”
He added: “We have before us a momentous opportunity to change the history of golf in Catalunya and in Spain through delivering The 2022 Ryder Cup.”
The Spanish government’s commitments add to those of the Catalunya authorities, led by President Mas, who welcomed a delegation from Ryder Cup Europe in June 2015 to formally reiterate the unified support of all bid sponsors.
Ryder Cup Europe will announce the successful host nation in December 2015.
