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4h ago

R&A Introduces Enforceable Fan Code for 154th Open at Royal Birkdale

Organisers say the five-point Open Commitment will be communicated via tickets and signage, with stewards empowered to remove serious or repeat offenders to protect players and the course.

Jul 5, 2026; Silvis, Illinois, USA; Max Homa prepares to putt in front of a large crowd on the 18th hole during the final round of the John Deere Classic golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Marc Lebryk-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • The R&A announced the Open Commitment on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, and will put the code into effect at the 154th Open, which starts at Royal Birkdale next week.
  • The policy sets out five principles—Respect the Players, Respect the Links, Respect Each Other, Be Aware and Enjoy Responsibly—to define acceptable spectator behaviour.
  • Fans will be informed of the rules through ticket terms, on-site signage and digital channels, and the R&A says serious or repeated breaches may lead to removal from the course.
  • The move follows recent high-profile crowd problems at the 2026 U.S. Open and the 2025 Ryder Cup and responds to prior Open incidents where players were heckled.
  • With organisers expecting more than 300,000 spectators, the R&A frames the code as a way to protect players, volunteers and the links and to create a precedent for how majors police fan conduct.