Mark Darbon
Mark Darbon is the chief executive of the R&A, the governing body of golf in the UK and Ireland, and is instrumental in overseeing the British Open. His recent announcement regarding the inclusion of LIV Golf players into the Open's tournament structure reflects a significant shift in the landscape of professional golf, aiming to create more inclusive opportunities for players from various tours. Darbon's leadership is focused on enhancing the sport's global appeal and ensuring that the Open remains a premier championship that recognizes the achievements of top golfers regardless of their tour affiliations.
Not in the pool (under ¢1).
Recent news mentions
Mark Darbon, the chief executive of R&A, expressed delight in bringing the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship back to New Zealand.
Te Arai Links announced as 2026 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship host venue
New Zealand· 2025-10-23
Mark Darbon, the new CEO of The Open, referred to the tournament’s 'unique proposition.'
At The British Open, establishing linguistic supremacy is the name of the game
Canada· 2025-07-17
Mark Darbon, chief executive of The R&A, commented on the growth of golf participation.
No flies on us as we look forward to new views of the Open – The Irish Times
Ireland· 2025-07-15
Mark Darbon has made more positive noises about the course, at the same time as stressing that infrastructure at the location remains a challenge.
If Starmer is willing to help Trump host a lucrative golf tournament, will he caddy for him too? | Marina Hyde
United Kingdom· 2025-04-30
Mark Darbon, the new chief executive of the R&A, expressed interest in returning the championship to Turnberry.
UK officials pushing for the Open to return to Trump-owned Turnberry – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-04-29
Mark Darbon, the new chief executive of the R&A, expressed interest in seeing the championship return to Turnberry.
Whitehall officials ‘pushing for the Open to return to Trump-owned Turnberry’ | The OpenUnited Kingdom· 2025-04-28Mark Darbon feels that the Open is one of the world’s great sporting events.
British Open focus is on getting bigger, and that leaves out some of the better linksCanada· 2025-04-23
Mark Darbon is the chief executive of the R&A and discussed the future of The Open at Portmarnock.
R&A ‘hopeful’ for future Portmarnock staging of The Open but says a lot of work still be done – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-04-23
Mark Darbon, R&A chief executive, expressed that Peter McEvoy will be widely missed across the golf world.
Contrite Ángel Cabrera back at the Masters after jail time – The Irish TimesIreland· 2025-04-08
R&A chief executive Mark Darbon said the decision was made following an annual review of the Open’s exemptions.
British Open becomes latest major to offer direct pathway for LIV Golf playersCanada· 2025-02-10
