Luke Donald has appointed Pádraig Harrington as his third vice-captain for the 2027 Ryder Cup to be played at Adare Manor in Ireland from September 17-19.
Harrington joins the Molinari brothers, Edoardo and Francesco, in Donald’s back row for next year’s competition, as Team Europe seeks a third consecutive Ryder Cup victory following victories at Marco Simone in 2023 and Bethpage Black in 2025.
The Major Champion, one of Ireland’s most decorated and beloved sporting heroes, was a player in the only previous Ryder Cup to be played in his home country in 2006. He has represented Europe six times in total as a player – including being part of four winners – and was previously vice-captain three times before becoming captain of the 2021 Ryder Cups at Whits Straitsyder.
Harrington adds a wealth of experience to Team Europe, as well as a strong knowledge of Adare Manor, the venue for the 100th anniversary of the annual competition.
“Luke and I arranged to meet at The Open and talked about it, and we felt like we could get a good team again,” said Harrington. “Obviously, he was my Vice-Captain in 2021, and we’ve worked together as Vice-Captains in the past. And certainly, I feel I have something to offer. Luke has a strong team around him already and you feel we will work well together.
“It’s something I didn’t expect. I honestly didn’t think I’d wear the European Ryder Cup logo again. So I’m very happy to be a part of it. The Ryder Cup has been an important part of my life. Representing Europe has always been one of the highlights of my golf career, and being able to wear the European Ryder Cup logo again. I want to miss it especially in Ireland, especially in Ireland. I’m very happy.
“I think it will be an amazing event and one of the biggest sporting events to be played in the country. The whole of Ireland will be behind it, watching it, enjoying it and living it. The fans will be fantastic, and I think the atmosphere will be second to none.
“It’s a big event for JP (McManus, owner of Adare Manor). He likes to give back to his community everywhere in Limerick. Adare is a great place to be and hosting the Ryder Cup adds a lot. Next year it will promote golf and hospitality in Ireland. I think it will be one of the best sporting events and anyone who gets the time to visit there will find the time to visit there.
Donald said: “Pádraig is someone I’ve thought about a lot, especially being at Adare. He has a special relationship with JP (McManus) and the connection with the fans, which I think is important. I’ve been with Pádraig in many Ryder Cup team rooms, as a player, as Vice-Captain of his captain, and he’s been Vice-Captain and he’s doing a fortune. The fact that there’s a connection. He understands the Irish crowds and everything that goes with having the cup. for Ryder in Ireland I think it will be very special for him.
