Ticket Ballot now open

A new chapter in Open history will be written when the Championship returns to Royal Birkdale in 2026 – and fans can now apply to be part of it.

The Ticket Ballot for The 154th Open went live today (Monday 30 June) and will remain open until Friday 25 July, ensuring those interested have every opportunity to enter.

The world’s best players will descend on the Southport venue from 12-19 July 2026, nine years after the Championship was last held at the venue.

A new winner-takes-all Last-Chance Qualifier and special Heroes Classic will feature among new enhancements being introduced for fans attending earlier in the week.

The Last-Chance Qualifier on Monday 13 July will generate drama and excitement for fans as up to 12 players chase their dream of playing in The Open by competing over 18 holes of the iconic Southport links to decide who earns the final place in the field ahead of the draw being announced.

The Heroes Classic will see a number of past champions and invited special guests taking part in a short-format challenge on Tuesday 14 July in a celebration of The Open’s long-standing traditions, which have inspired millions of people of all ages worldwide to follow and participate in the sport.

Since first staging The Open in 1954, Royal Birkdale has been the most regular host of the Championship outside St Andrews.

Most recently, at The 146th Open in 2017 Jordan Spieth joined the pantheon of Champion Golfers after a titanic tussle for the Claret Jug during a thrilling week.

Ahead of The Open's return, demand for tickets is expected to be high. To enter the ballot fans can join One Club for free and submit an application. Existing One Club members – and fans who have already registered an interest in the ballot – will have been sent information on how to enter via the same process.

The 154th Open will be the first host of The Open Experiences – the new range of ticket options giving fans innovative new ways to attend the Championship. From the relaxed Ticket Plus option, Select, to luxury hospitality offerings, there are experiences for every golf fan. Explore and guarantee your place at Royal Birkdale here.

For 2026, ticket-inclusive accommodation packages are also being launched, allowing fans to secure their ticket or hospitality experience alongside accommodation, travel and the option to add tee times. Discover more here.