Dr Michael W.J. Smurfit, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, The Jefferson Smurfit Group, made this historic announcement today. The winner will receive £208,300 (IR£250,000).
The Smurfit European Open becomes the first Tour-organised event with a prize fund in excess of $2,000,000. Per-Ulrik Johansson will defend the title at The K Club on August 20-23.
Prize money for the inaugural European Open in 1978 was £105,000 with a first prize of £18,000.
Dr Michael Smurfit said: “This is the fourth year of The Jefferson Smurfit Group’s sponsorship of the European Open. We believe that its popularity with both the players and the public has increased with the tournament being played at The K Club.
“Now we feel the time is right to demonstrate our commitment and this prize money increase reflects our desire to further enhance the international reputation of the Smurfit European Open.”
Ken Schofield, Executive Director of the European Tour, said: “All three Smurfit European Opens at The K Club have been unqualified successes, and we sincerely thank Dr Michael Smurfit and The Jefferson Smurfit Group by recognising this with a landmark announcement that will be warmly welcomed by all our Members.”
