American Express extends sponsorship of the PGA Tour event through 2028
Pro play at the American Express kicks off tomorrow in La Quinta. We've learned this morning that the tournament has committed to remaining in the Coachella Valley through 2028. News Channel 3 confirmed the development with the tournament's director Pat McCabe. The Desert Classic was previously known as the CareerBuilder and Humana Challenge throughout recent years. The tournament has changed names several times while having a hard time finding a sponsor that can commit to the PGA Tour event long-term. This 2028 American Express sponsorship commitment is welcome news.
The annual tournament, which features a unique pro-am format, takes place January 20-23 at PGA WEST Stadium, PGA WEST Nicklaus and La Quinta Country Club.
“Giving back to the community while celebrating the passions of our customers is at the center of what we do at American Express,” said Stephen J. Squeri, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of American Express. “We’ve seen the positive impact this tournament has on golf fans and the local community in the Coachella Valley. We’re honored to continue this legacy by extending our role as title sponsor and growing the total charitable funds raised to support so many outstanding local organizations focused on helping small businesses, the health and wellness of the community, youth sports, education and more.”
Since its introduction in 1960, the tournament has generated approximately $63 million for numerous non-profit organizations in the Coachella Valley that enrich the lives of Valley residents. In just two short years, The American Express has since donated $2.1 million to Coachella Valley-based charity organizations and looks forward to continuing to make a significant impact within the local community for years to come.
“Extending our partnership with American Express secures the future of PGA TOUR golf and its impact in the Coachella Valley for years to come,” said Jay Monahan, PGA TOUR Commissioner. “In the past two years alone, American Express has helped produce tremendous growth and awareness for this historic event, offering up a great field and a first-rate tournament experience. All this while generating significant charitable impact in the region.”
World Number 1 ranked player Jon Rahm, FedExCup champion Patrick Cantlay and Phil Mickelson, a 45-time PGA TOUR winner and World Golf Hall of Fame member headline The American Express field. Si Woo Kim of South Korea, winner of The American Express last year by one stroke over eventual FedExCup champion Patrick Cantlay, returns in 2022 to defend his title.
See what some of the best golfers in the world will be working at the American Express with in Sports Director Blake Arthur's in-depth look at course conditions as well as a list of tee times.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more updates.