Spanish stars headline Catalunya debut
Home favourites set to ignite Barcelona as new DP World Tour event takes shape
Paju, Korea - Spanish stars Ángel Hidalgo, Eugenio Chacarra, Rafa Cabrera Bello, Adri Arnaus and Jorge Campillo will lead the home charge at the Estrella Damm Catalunya Championship at Real Club de Golf El Prat from May 7–10.
They join Pablo Larrazábal, Nacho Elvira and Ángel Ayora as the tournament дебuts on the 2026 Race to Dubai, forming part of the European Swing and the Road to the 2031 Ryder Cup.
“I’m really looking forward to playing the Estrella Damm Catalunya Championship,” said Hidalgo. “Any time we get the chance to compete in Spain it means a lot. The support from the crowds gives you that extra boost, and to do it at a course like Real Club de Golf El Prat makes it even more special.”
Hidalgo returns seeking to rediscover the form that brought him a breakthrough victory at the 2024 Open de España, while Chacarra arrives as a rising force following his maiden DP World Tour title at the 2025 Hero Indian Open and a runner-up finish at this year’s edition.
“It’s always a privilege to represent Spain,” said Chacarra. “We have such a strong tradition in golf, and to be part of this new event in Catalunya is something I’m very proud of. I’m sure the atmosphere will be incredible, and I can’t wait to be part of it.”
Cabrera Bello adds experience and pedigree as a former Ryder Cup player and Rolex Series winner, while Arnaus returns to familiar surroundings after his breakthrough win in Catalunya in 2020. Campillo, a three-time DP World Tour winner, completes a formidable line-up following a recent runner-up finish in China.
“Playing at home is something you never take for granted,” said Cabrera Bello. “Spanish fans are knowledgeable and passionate, and they always create a fantastic environment. It’s great to see a new tournament in Catalunya and I’m excited to be there in May.”
“I’m really proud to see an event like this come to Catalunya,” added Arnaus. “Playing at home, especially at a venue like Real Club de Golf El Prat, is always very special.”
“We don’t get many opportunities to play in Spain during the season, so when we do, it’s special,” said Campillo. “Real Club de Golf El Prat is a brilliant venue, and I think it will be a great test.”
The event marks the first DP World Tour tournament at Real Club de Golf El Prat since 2015, with a strong Spanish contingent ensuring anticipation continues to build for a significant week in Barcelona.