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Luke Donald Names Francesco Molinari as Second Vice-Captain for 2027 Ryder Cup

The former Open champion adds veteran Ryder Cup experience to a backroom team focused on preserving the culture that helped Europe win the last two cups.

Overview

  • Donald confirmed Francesco Molinari’s appointment on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, saying Molinari has been an integral part of his backroom team.
  • Francesco, 43, joins his brother Edoardo so the Molinari siblings will both serve as vice-captains for Europe at Adare Manor.
  • Molinari’s Ryder Cup pedigree includes playing on winning European teams in 2010, 2012 and 2018, a decisive half-point at Medinah in 2012 and a 5-0 record in Paris in 2018.
  • Vice-captains act as on-site leaders who shape pairings, team culture and player support, so retaining experienced figures signals Donald’s preference for continuity as Europe prepares team strategy.
  • The appointment completes Europe’s early leadership picture ahead of the Sept. 17–19, 2027 match at Adare Manor while Jim Furyk has been identified as the U.S. captain for the same event.