European and Asian Tours announce 'strategic alliance' but no merger

18 July 2016 09:24

The European Tour and Asian Tour have formalised a "strategic alliance" between the two organisations after protracted talks about a possible merger failed.

Ryder Cup vice-captain Thomas Bjorn, who is chairman of the European Tour's tournament committee, had previously described a merger as "the only way forward," but some Asian players opposed the move amid fears of a reduction in their playing opportunities.

Speaking in May, commissioner Kyi Hla Han said the Asian Tour would have "disappeared" in the merger.

In a statement released on Monday, European Tour chief executive Keith Pelley said: " Following successful discussions over the past year to develop our joint vision, we are delighted to announce this 'Strategic Alliance' which we believe will be of immense benefit to both organisations.

"We have enjoyed a very strong and prosperous relationship with the Asian Tour over the past 17 years and this formalises that partnership, representing an exciting new era in our association."

Han added: "The Asian Tour is delighted to formalise our 'Strategic Alliance' with the European Tour. This is a very positive step forward in our desire to further grow professional golf in Asia and around the world and we believe it will also greatly enhance the careers of our membership, who have embraced this exciting development.

"We are also confident a greater collaboration between the Asian Tour and European Tour will deliver a stronger product to our partners and appeal to new sponsors to get involved with the game. The future looks very exciting for the Asian Tour and European Tour."

A "significant exchange" of playing opportunities is promised, although both Tours - working from a joint office in Singapore - will retain their own identity in terms of brand and logo and will still be managed by their own individual boards.

Source: PA