Patrick Reed Targets Race to Dubai Victory in UAE

Published: October 4, 2026, 7:40 am

Major champion Patrick Reed has confirmed his participation in the DP World Tour Championship, scheduled for November 12-15 at Jumeirah Golf Estates. The American golfer enters the event as the current leader in the Race to Dubai Rankings Delivered by DP World, holding a position he has maintained for more than seven months since his rise to the top in February. Having moved to the top in February after a blistering start to his year, the 36-year-old has sat atop the Rankings for more than seven months.

Reed’s strong season included a four-stroke triumph at the Rolex Series Hero Dubai Desert Classic in January, which marked his fourth career DP World Tour title. He followed this just two weeks later with a two-stroke victory at the Qatar Masters. Now ranked 29th globally, the 2018 Masters champion has the opportunity to become the second American to be named European Number One, following in the footsteps of 2021 winner Collin Morikawa. Following Collin Morikawa, who claimed the title in 2021 while also becoming the first American to win the DP W, the World Number 29 now has the chance to become only the second American to be crowned European Number One.

Reflecting on his campaign, Reed noted, “Dubai is where the season really got going for me, so it would be pretty cool to finish it there with the Harry Vardon Trophy. I’ve played the DP World Tour Championship a bunch of times over the years, so I know the golf course pretty well and what it takes to get it done there.” He acknowledged the challenge ahead, adding, “There are some really good players behind me, and that’s what makes the DP World Tour so competitive. You know you’re going to have to play well right to the end.”

As Reed prepares for his eighth appearance at the tournament, he faces stiff competition from a field that includes Rory McIlroy, who is seeking his eighth Race to Dubai crown. The leaderboard also features PGA Championship winner Eugenio Chacarra, Aaron Rai, and Open Champion Ryan Fox, ensuring a tightly contested finish at the Earth course. Eugenio Chacarra, 2026 US PGA Championship winner Aaron Rai and Open Champion Ryan Fox complete the top five, setting up a thrilling end to the season before the Race to Dubai champion is crowned at Jumeirah Golf Estates.

Now in its 18th year, the DP World Tour Championship remains a premier event on the Dubai sporting calendar. Fans can attend on Thursday, November 12, for free with pre-registration. Additional fan experiences include the 1st Tee Experience, which provides exclusive views of opening shots, and the Championship Chalet and Earth Lounge, which offer premium hospitality and course-side viewing platforms. The 1st Tee Experience also returns as an add-on to general admission, giving fans a dedicated viewing area overlooking the opening tee shots, with complimentary refreshments, following its successful launch last year. The Championship Chalet offers a front-row view of the conclusion of each round, with five-star catering, free-flowing drinks throughout the day and exclusive access to a viewing platform on the 1st tee, set on the 18th green.

Beyond the professional competition, the Championship Village is designed for spectators of all ages, offering youth-focused activities, instructional golf clinics, and entertainment, including scheduled events like Ladies Day on Saturday and Family Day on Sunday.