Ryder Cup ticket tout warning issued

Gleneagles, hosting the Ryder Cup in 2014. Picture: Neil Hanna

RYDER Cup organisers are warning that ticket touts may already be targeting next year’s major golfing clash between Europe and America in Gleneagles by selling “illicit” corporate deals which will not allow golf fans access to the course.

The warning came as the organisers of one of the world’s biggest sporting events launched their corporate hospitality packages for the 2014 Ryder Cup being staged at the PGA Centenary Course from 23 to 28 September next year.

For the first time, day hospitality packages, aimed at small businesses, are being made available, costing from £500 upwards.

But Ryder Cup Europe today warned: “Official hospitality packages that provide access to the PGA Centenary Course at the Gleneagles Hotel, where the event is being held, will only be contracted directly with Ryder Cup Europe. Only packages sold through Ryder Cup Europe will include match tickets and be located within the venue.

“Organisers are therefore urging businesses to carefully scrutinise the claims of independent hospitality packages to avoid disappointment as match day tickets are not transferable and are subject to stringent fraud prevention measures. Anyone considering corporate hospitality at the event is being urged to be completely clear about just what they are buying. Ryder Cup Europe is unable to assist with any claims of mis-selling against third parties.”

Richard Hills, Europe’s Ryder Cup Director, said: “The Ryder Cup offers one of the most prestigious forms of hospitality anywhere in the world. Whilst we are delighted to have created a programme with the ever changing market conditions in mind, buyers are urged to be clear exactly what their package includes to avoid disappointment or embarrassment.

“Businesses looking to entertain clients and colleagues at the 2014 Ryder Cup should be cautious of unofficial packages offering hospitality around the event but outside of the venue. They may not be illegal but they cannot include tickets for the 2014 Ryder Cup. If you are in any doubt, we urge people to contact us directly so we can confirm whether a package is official or not.”

He added: “Previous Ryder Cups have attracted larger businesses with greater scope to purchase packages lasting several days. We are responding to demand from smaller businesses by offering single day hospitality packages. The shared experience of a special sporting event can build or cement lasting business relationships and we hope this new measure will attract applications from those who might not have previously considered attending.”

A spokesman for Ryder Cup Europe explained: “For the first time ever, single day hospitality packages will be on offer in an effort to attract a greater number of small and medium sized businesses to the Ryder Cup. All packages include food and complimentary refreshments throughout the day as well as tickets to see the event unfold at Gleneagles.

“Official hospitality prices for the 2014 Ryder Cup start at £495+VAT per person for a match day package but vary according to length of in venue location, facilities and choice of date. Day tickets are available for each of the four days at all hospitality venues with practice days also available on request.”

He added: “Prices compare well to other ‘big ticket’ events in the UK and are approximately half the price of Champions League Final hospitality for a comparable service.”