Carnoustie takes major step toward The Open return with £10 million investment
Since Francesco Molinari claimed the Claret Jug at Carnoustie in 2018, the venue has not hosted The Open. Now, after investing more than £10 million under new ownership, it is making a push to return to the championship rota.
New owners came in 2023, and their main goal has been to help Carnoustie climb the ranks among the world’s premier golf destinations. Fair to say, they have worked considerably toward that target.
“This is a local institution that matters deeply to people in Carnoustie, and we saw an opportunity to breathe new life into it, support local jobs and create something the community can be proud of,” said Ross Blackadder, CGL’s chief operating officer.
Jul 20, 2025; Portrush, IRL; The Claret Jug on the first hole during the final round of The 153rd Open Championship golf tournament at Royal Portrush. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
Jul 20, 2025; Portrush, IRL; The Claret Jug on the first hole during the final round of The 153rd Open Championship golf tournament at Royal Portrush. Mandatory Credit: Mike Frey-Imagn Images
A total of £10.3 million has been invested in the venue by the new owners since 2023, according to Bunkered. This includes course improvements, hospitality projects, heritage preservation, and hotel redevelopment, with further investment plans expected to benefit both the golf facility and the local community.
Local hospitality venue Maxi’s has been acquired by CGL. The £500,000 investment has been made in an attempt to strengthen the visitor economy.
CGL has also acquired the Simpsons Golf Shop, the world’s second-oldest golf shop, and is planning to renovate it into a heritage center that will celebrate the venue’s extensive golfing history.
Maintenance standards will reach new heights as CGL aims to host The Open once again.
Championship-level maintenance standards will be implemented by Carnoustie
CGL wants the maintenance standards to be on par with championship levels.
“Investment in the latest John Deere machinery, alongside a brand-new state-of-the-art irrigation system across all three courses gives the team the tools and support needed to keep Carnoustie Golf Links performing at the very highest level,” said Kevin Stott, CGL’s links superintendent.
Attention to detail remains CGL’s priority as it looks to meet the expectations of its season ticket holders and visiting golfers.
Carnoustie’s famed hotel will also keep its place. However, it will be remodeled to elevate its luxury standards.
The new ownership is taking every measure across every facet of the venue as it aims to host The Open for the ninth time.
What are your thoughts on the investments made by the new Carnoustie ownership? Share them in the comments.
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Written by
Avishek Sarkar
Edited by
Pulkit Prabhav