In the world of golf, being named a captain isn’t just a nod to your playing skills; it’s a testament to your leadership, charisma, and ability to keep a cool head when the stakes are as high as the clubhouse bar tab.
Come January 10-12, 2025, Francesco Molinari and Justin Rose will test their mettle as Playing Captains in the 2025 Team Cup, hosted on the lush landscapes of the National Course at Abu Dhabi Golf Resort.
He led Continental Europe to a sweet victory back in 2023, and now he’s back for seconds.
But this time, he faces his old Ryder Cup mate, Justin Rose, who’s taking the reins for Team Great Britain & Ireland for his inaugural captaincy.
The stage is set for a friendly feud where old allies become friendly rivals, and every shot counts.
The pair will lead respective teams of ten DP World Tour Members in the three-day match play contest, with Ryder Cup Captain Luke Donald also presiding over proceedings in the United Arab Emirates as he did in 2023.
In addition to Molinari and Rose, the teams will comprise the leading four available Continental European and GB&I members from the final 2024 Race to Dubai Rankings, with the five remaining players on each side being selected by the respective Captains in consultation with Donald.
Donald, who will lead Europe for the second time at the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black next year said: “I’m really pleased that the Team Cup is returning as it provided some invaluable experience for a lot of players last year.
I think all of us got a lot out of the week in terms of experiencing the uniqueness of a team environment.
It also helped everyone involved to understand, through the Past Ryder Cup Captains who came and spoke to the players during the event, just what it means to represent Europe in the Ryder Cup.
I am delighted that Francesco and Justin will assume the role of Captains. We saw what Francesco was capable of when he led Continental Europe to a great victory in 2023 and Justin was inspirational both inside and outside the ropes at Marco Simone last year. I’m excited to see them go head-to-head.”
Continental Europe Captain Molinari said: “I’m delighted to have the opportunity to captain Continental Europe again and to try and successfully defend the Team Cup.
It was a really special week in 2023 and was great to see players from so many different countries across the Continent working towards one single goal.
I have immense respect for Justin, he is a great competitor and going up against him and his team is a challenge I’m really relishing.”
Team GB&I Captain Rose said: “It’ll be strange going up against Fran in a match play competition rather than him being on the same side, but it’s something I am really looking forward to, even though I know it will be tough given Fran’s history not just in this contest but in the Ryder Cup too.
But there is so much exciting talent from Great Britain and Ireland on the DP World Tour right now – it will be great to have the chance to try and mould them into a winning team.”
As in 2023, the teams will compete in match play across one session of fourballs on Friday, two sessions of foursomes on Saturday and one session of singles on the Sunday, with every player taking part in all four of the sessions.
Each match will be worth one point, with the team crossing the 12½ point mark winning the Team Cup.
The Team Cup – formerly known as the Hero Cup – was first played in January 2023, with Continental Europe, led by Molinari, defeating the GB&I team led by Tommy Fleetwood by 14½ -10½.
Players who competed in that contest who went on to represent Europe in the Ryder Cup last year were: Nicolai Højgaard and Sepp Straka (Continental Europe) and Fleetwood, Tyrrell Hatton, Shane Lowry and Robert MacIntyre (GB&I).
So, whether you’re a die-hard golf fan or just love a good day out, the 2025 Team Cup at Abu Dhabi is shaping up to be a classic, packed with rivalry, camaraderie, and top-tier golf.
It’s not just about strokes and putts; it’s about the heart-pounding moments that define the sport.
Fans are now able to register for free General Admission tickets for the event, with Premium Experience options also available in The Trophy Lounge here.
There will be a host of activities for all the family in the Championship Village, with food outlets, picnic areas and live entertainment.
For those seeking an elevated day at Abu Dhabi Golf Resort, the Premium Experience option is also available.
Guests can enjoy five-star catering in a relaxed environment, inside the airconditioned clubhouse or on the shaded viewing terrace.
Breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea are provided in addition to a beverage package of hops, grains and soft beverages.
For more information on General Admission and Premium Experience tickets, click here.
