The PGA Tour is heading back to familiar territory. After a decade-long absence, the circuit returns to Trump National Doral's iconic Blue Monster Course for the 2026 Cadillac Championship this weekend. It's a homecoming that brings with it a rich history, a touch of controversy, and a whole lot of great golf.
For 53 years, Doral was a staple on the PGA Tour calendar, hosting some of the game's most memorable moments. That streak ended in 2016, when the tournament moved on. Now, the Tour is back, marking the first PGA Tour event at a Trump-owned property since the President began his political career. Reports indicate President Trump is expected to attend Sunday's final round, weather permitting—rain has already delayed the start of play.
So, why the return? It comes down to a mix of timing, sponsorship, and opportunity. The original split was fueled in part by a lapsed title sponsor deal with Cadillac after 2015. The Tour's contract with Doral included an opt-out clause if a new sponsor wasn't found, and with Trump's first presidential run heating up, the timing made a departure convenient. Fast forward to 2026, and the pieces fell back into place.
According to The Palm Beach Post, the Tour was impressed by Doral's ability to still host world-class events. The Saudi-backed LIV Golf League had been running tournaments at the course since 2022, with Trump himself participating in pro-ams. But when LIV left Doral off its 2026 schedule, the PGA Tour stepped in. It's a notable move, especially given the ongoing—and reportedly stalled—merger talks between the two tours, which have involved Trump's input.
Doral remains one of only nine venues in PGA Tour history to host events for 50 years or more, a testament to its challenging layout and prestige. This weekend, many of the world's best players are in the field, ready to tackle the Blue Monster once again. If the rain holds off, Sunday promises a dramatic finish at a course that feels both new and nostalgic for the Tour.
