Online Reporter
Takudzwa Chitsiga
Zimpapers Sports Hub
THE 2026 edition of the FBC Zimbabwe Open was launched with a purse value of US$200 000 and will see 140 players taking part in the country’s premier golf event.
The tournament is set for the picturesque Royal Harare from May 3-10.
After a local in Mark McNulty last won the tournament back in 2000, many golf enthusiasts believe it’s now time a player from host nation reclaimed the title from the South Africans who have dominated the past editions.
Zimbabwe Professional Golfers Association president, Arkil Yousuf, believes there is enough arsenal to reclaim former glory as there is a strong field of 15 professionals who have already made it to the finals.
Yousuf believes players like Kieran Vincent, Tongo Charamba, Ignatius Mketekete, Nyasha Muyambo, Clive Nguru, Davison Elijah, David Amm and recently turned professional David Chikanyambidze will add to Zimbabwe’s chances of winning the title.
“I think everyone has an equal opportunity to take the title and we are happy that we have some players who are doing well in the Sunshine and Asian Tours who will be part of the field.
“It is high time we had a local winner but players back home are capable and we will rally behind everyone who will be in the race.
“There are more players who have been practicing a lot for the tournament and are looking forward to it,” said Yousuf.
Zimbabwe Open Committee tournament director, Michael Mahachi, is happy to stage the 2026 edition.
“We are happy to have officially launched the 2026 FBC Zimbabwe Open Golf Tournament in Harare today.”
The Zimbabwe Open is the country’s most prestigious golf event. It has hosted renowned golfers such as Nick Price, Tony Johnston, and Mark McNulty.
The 2026 tournament is primarily sponsored by FBC Holdings, with support from Zimre Holdings Limited and Caledonia Mining Corporation among others.
Their backing underscores the importance of sport in Zimbabwe’s development and economy.
“The Zimbabwe Open is more than just a game.
“It brings jobs, tourists, investment, and better health to our people,” Mahachi said.
With its stunning landscapes and abundant sunshine, Zimbabwe is an ideal destination for golf and sports tourism.
FBC Holdings has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to Zimbabwean golf by announcing a sponsorship the package for 2026.
This marks the fifth consecutive year that the leading financial services group has proudly held the title sponsorship for the nation’s flagship golf tournament.
Tryson Kufazvineyi, the FBC Bank chief executive, said the commitment shows how they have come a long way in supporting the sport for the past five years.
“The significant sponsorship not only underscores FBC Holdings’ dedication to the sport but also firmly positions the Zimbabwe Open as one of the top events on the esteemed Sunshine Tour.
“This elevated status is expected to attract a strong contingent of talented professional golfers, further enhancing the tournament’s competitiveness and prestige.
“FBC Holdings is immensely proud to continue our partnership with the Zimbabwe Open for the fourth consecutive year.
“We believe in the power of sport to unite and inspire, and we are thrilled that our investment will contribute to the success of this premier event and further elevate its standing on the Sunshine Tour,” said Kufazvineyi.
