VIRGINIA WATER, England — Team Europe captain Luke Donald announced that Edoardo Molinari will serve as his first vice captain for the upcoming Ryder Cup next year.
Molinari has previously assisted Donald during the last two Ryder Cups, contributing to the European triumphs in Rome in 2023 and at Bethpage Black in New York the previous year.
The biennial event is scheduled to take place at Adare Manor in Ireland in September 2027. Europe has maintained an unbeaten record on home turf since 1993.
“It was a straightforward decision when Luke reached out to me and asked if I would be willing to assist him again. I was certainly very pleased,” Molinari stated in a press release on Thursday.
“Any opportunity to participate in the Ryder Cup, in any capacity, is a wonderful experience, and I am eagerly anticipating Adare Manor,” he added.
The 45-year-old Molinari will again offer essential statistical assistance to Donald and Team Europe.
“Edoardo has been a tremendous source of support for me,” Donald remarked. “He has significantly impacted our team. His contributions from a statistical analysis standpoint are invaluable, particularly in aiding me with the qualification system and navigating the constantly evolving landscape of golf.
“He possesses a calm demeanor. I always know where I stand with him, and he provides me with excellent advice … He is a crucial element of our support team.”
Molinari’s initial role as vice captain occurred on home ground in Italy, where he helped Team Europe secure a victory over the United States 16Β½ — 11Β½ at Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Rome. He returned to the support team for the 15-13 win last September.
“He collaborates closely with several players,” Donald continued. “He is data-driven and consistently seeks ways to gain advantages through statistics, analyzing the golf course, and determining how to set it up to provide a slight edge, which is more manageable as a home team.
“I am looking forward to collaborating with him again. He is incredibly committed, dedicated, and passionate about what the Ryder Cup signifies. It is an honor to have him alongside me once more.”
Molinari participated as a player in the 2010 Ryder Cup victory in Wales alongside his brother Francesco, who also served as a vice captain in Rome and New York.
