Spain Steps Up Golf Sustainability

The Real Federación Española de Golf (RFEG) and The R&A are working together to boost golf sustainability in Spain.

Their renewed collaboration reflects a shared ambition to improve golf course efficiency and environmental responsibility across the country. As climate challenges grow and regulations tighten, the push for more sustainable practices has never been more urgent — and Spain is responding with action.

Daniel Lightfoot, Director of Sustainable Golf at The R&A, recently visited Spain to observe and support ongoing sustainability projects led by the RFEG’s Green Section. His visit highlighted not only the technical advances made in recent years but also the growing commitment within Spain to address environmental challenges through innovation, education, and strategic partnerships.

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A Legacy of Golf Sustainability in Spain

Established in 2002, the RFEG’s Green Section has consistently worked alongside The R&A on various initiatives aimed at achieving more efficient and environmentally friendly golf course maintenance. Under the guidance of former R&A Sustainability Director Steve Isaac, significant advancements were made in areas such as:​

• Implementing more sustainable grass species.​

• Establishing academies to promote golf.​

• Optimizing the use of phytosanitary products.​

• Enhancing irrigation efficiency.​

• Installing photovoltaic energy systems.​

One notable project is “Golf Course 2030,” which involves collaboration with the Spanish Association of Greenkeepers and the University of Seville. This initiative explores non-chemical alternatives for turf disease control, addressing current regulations on phytosanitary use and seeking genetic solutions to diseases like Dollar Spot.​

Daniel Lightfoot’s Visit: A Commitment to Sustainability

During his visit to Seville, Lightfoot toured the University of Seville’s facilities, where studies are conducted in collaboration with the Plant Production team led by Professors Manuel Avilés and Celia Borrero. He also visited areas provided by Sevilla Fútbol Club for sports turf research, supported by groundsman Carlos Venegas.​

In Madrid, Lightfoot met with RFEG officials, including Director General Jorge Sagardoy and Green Section Director David Gómez, who outlined the federation’s sustainability efforts. The discussions emphasized the importance of these initiatives in the development and promotion of golf in Spain.​

The visit concluded at the Centro Nacional de Golf, where General Director Juan Fernández showcased various sustainability projects implemented in recent years. The center serves as a testing ground for these initiatives before they are applied to other Spanish courses.​

A Sustainable Future for Golf in Spain

Lightfoot commended the progress made in Spain, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration to make golf courses more sustainable. This visit further strengthens the relationship between The R&A and the RFEG, ensuring that Spain remains at the forefront of sustainable golf development.

For those who appreciate Spain’s world-class golf courses, these sustainability efforts not only protect the environment but also enhance the overall playing experience. If you’re considering a golf getaway, why not experience some of Spain’s finest, eco-friendly golf courses?

Discover top golf destinations in Spain and book your next golf holiday here.

Source: Real Federación Española de Golf (RFEG)

Can Spain Make History at the Joburg Open?

This week presents several key opportunities for Spanish golfers across major international circuits, marking a pivotal moment early in the 2025 season. From South Africa to China and the Caribbean, Spanish professionals are competing on multiple fronts — and in some cases, chasing historic milestones.

At the Joburg Open in South Africa, six Spanish players are looking to secure what would be Spain’s first-ever victory at the event. Meanwhile, Ángel Ayora is preparing to make his long-awaited PGA Tour debut at the Puerto Rico Open, a significant step in his rising career. Over in Asia, three talented Spanish golfers will also take part in the Blue Bay LPGA in China, representing the country on the global stage in the women’s game.

With so much on the line — from breakthrough wins to career-defining debuts — it’s a week full of promise for Spanish golf.

Here is a detailed look at where Spanish golfers are playing and what is at stake.

DP World Tour – Six Spaniards Compete at the Joburg Open

• Tournament: Joburg Open
• Location: Houghton Golf Club, Johannesburg, South Africa
• Dates: March 6-9, 2025

The DP World Tour’s International Swing concludes this week with the Joburg Open, an event where no Spanish player has claimed victory since its inception in 2007. However, six Spanish golfers will look to break that trend:

• Iván Cantero
• Manuel Elvira
• Joel Moscatel
• Alejandro del Rey
• Rafael Cabrera-Bello
• Alfredo García Heredia

With several players in strong form, Spain has a promising chance to secure its first title at this event.

PGA Tour – Ángel Ayora Makes His Debut at the Puerto Rico Open

• Tournament: Puerto Rico Open
• Location: Grand Reserve Golf Club, Río Grande, Puerto Rico
• Dates: March 6-9, 2025

Spanish golf will see an emerging talent take a major step forward this week as Ángel Ayora makes his debut on the PGA Tour. Competing at the Puerto Rico Open, Ayora will have the opportunity to test his game against an international field.

This marks an important milestone in his career, as he looks to follow in the footsteps of Jon Rahm and Sergio García, who have established themselves among the world’s best. His performance this week will be closely watched as he begins his journey at the highest level of professional golf.

LPGA Tour – Muñoz, Fernández, and López Represent Spain in China

• Tournament: Blue Bay LPGA
• Location: Jian Lake Blue Bay Golf Course, Hainan, China
• Dates: March 6-9, 2025

The LPGA Tour continues its season with the Blue Bay LPGA, featuring three Spanish competitors:

• Azahara Muñoz
• Fátima Fernández Cano
• Julia López

The event will take place without Carlota Ciganda, who has been one of Spain’s most consistent performers on the LPGA Tour. However, Muñoz and Fernández Cano will be looking to make an impact and challenge for a strong result in China.

Other Spanish Golfers in Action This Week

• Champions Tour – Miguel Ángel Jiménez at Cologuard Classic (Tucson, Arizona, USA)
• Epson Tour – Carla Tejedo & Teresa Toscano at Atlantic Beach Classic (Florida, USA)
• LIV Golf – Hong Kong (No Spanish players in the field)

Weather Disruptions – Australian WPGA Championship Canceled

Severe weather has impacted the professional golf calendar, with Cyclone Alfred forcing the cancellation of the Australian WPGA Championship. As a result, some players have seen their schedules disrupted, shifting more attention to the LPGA Blue Bay event.

Looking Ahead

With multiple Spanish players competing across key events this week, there are several opportunities for strong performances. The Joburg Open remains the main focus, where six Spanish golfers will attempt to secure a historic victory. Additionally, Ángel Ayora’s PGA Tour debut provides an exciting storyline as he takes his first steps in elite competition.

As these tournaments unfold, Spanish golf fans will be watching closely to see how their players perform on the global stage.

While Spanish golfers chase their first Joburg Open win, why not tee off on some of Spain’s finest courses? Discover the best golf holidays in Spain.