The PGA Tour has proposed a new tournament structure featuring two distinct tracks of competition starting in 2028 [1].

This shift represents a fundamental change in how professional golf is organized. By creating a tiered system, the tour aims to incentivize top stars to compete more frequently while expanding the sport's reach into larger markets [3, 6].

CEO Brian Rolapp briefed the Player Advisory Council on the plan on June 3, 2026 [2, 4]. The proposal introduces two tracks of tournaments [1], one for elite events and a lower track for other competitions. This system would include a promotion and relegation mechanism to move players between the two tiers [1, 3].

Under the proposed model, the tour would expand fields at elite events [3]. Additionally, the plan seeks to restore the 36-hole cut, a traditional element of tournament play that has seen various modifications in recent years [1, 3].

The proposal was also presented to players at the Truist Championship [5]. The primary goal of the restructuring is to ensure the biggest names in the sport are more visible and active in competition [3, 6].

Rolapp said the model is designed to target bigger markets as the schedule evolves [5, 6]. The transition to this two-track system would require significant coordination between the tour administration and the players who will be subject to the new relegation rules [1, 4].

“The PGA Tour is proposing a two-track tournament model for 2028.”

The move toward a promotion and relegation system mirrors the structure of global soccer leagues, suggesting the PGA Tour is prioritizing competitive volatility and star-driven viewership. By restoring the 36-hole cut and expanding fields, the tour is attempting to balance the prestige of elite events with a more inclusive, high-stakes environment for lower-ranked players.