PGA sees politics behind the cancellation of Andalucía Masters tournament
The rumours are true, as the European Tour has now confirmed that next month’s Andalucía Masters tournament will not be taking place.
It was confirmed on Wednesday that Andalucía Masters tournament, which was to be held in southern Spain, has been cancelled. PGA fears economic crunch is the reason behind it.
The tournament was due to be held from 18-21 October and the PGA Chief Executive George O'Grady has said that the major reason behind its cancellation is the economic crisis, which most of Europe is growing through.
As Spain is not a very large economy, the crisis is really taking a toll on the Spanish economy.
George O’Grady also said that after the change of the local government, funds have been withdrawn for the event.
The local authorities in Andalucía announced on Monday that this tournament will not go ahead and it was officially confirmed by the European Tour. Sergio Garcia won this tournament last year and he will be sorely disappointed after hearing this news.
A press release from the European Tour states,
"The European Tour regrets to announce that the 2012 Andalucía Masters, due to be played at the Club de Golf Valderrama, Sotogrande, on October 18-21, will now be cancelled. The Junta de Andalucía confirmed this decision by letter which they also announced
by a press release on Monday September 10th”.
Formal meetings did take place between the Spanish golf federation and the Tour officials but things did not work out, and so the local government announced that this tournament will not take place.
"Despite discussions with the Royal Spanish Golf Federation, and a formal legal agreement with the Junta de Andalucía, the tournament will not take place".
There were already concerns over the hosting of major sports event. The Spanish economy is in bits and pieces at the moment and it cannot afford to host costly events, such as Andalucía Masters tournament.
The PGA Chief Executive has clearly mentioned that he sees the local government behind this cancellation.
"This is really (due to) a change of leadership in the area and how they do things,” said George while giving interview to Sky Sports.
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