Ryder Cup: Harrington Named Europe Vice-Captain

Harrington's Irish connection will work in his favour

Pádraig Harrington has been named a vice-captain of Europe's 2027 Ryder Cup team, handing the Dubliner a homecoming role when golf's biggest team event arrives at Adare Manor in Co Limerick next year.

Captain Luke Donald confirmed the appointment on Wednesday, with the three-time major winner joining Edoardo and Francesco Molinari in the backroom team as Europe chase a third win in a row after victories at Marco Simone in 2023 and Bethpage Black in 2025. It is a role reversal from 2021, when Donald served as Harrington's vice-captain at Whistling Straits. Adare Manor will be only the second Irish course to stage the event, after the K Club in 2006 — the last time Harrington played a Ryder Cup on home soil. You can follow the build-up through our Irish sport coverage, and The42 first reported the news.

What Harrington said about the Ryder Cup

"It's something I didn't expect. I honestly didn't think I'd ever wear the European Ryder Cup logo again. So I'm very happy to be part of it. The Ryder Cup has been a special part of my life. Representing Europe has always been one of the highlights of my golfing career, and to be able to do it again in this situation, especially in Ireland, is special. You wouldn't want to miss out with it being in Ireland."

Donald hailed the local connection, telling RTÉ Sport: "He brings a wealth of experience and I do love the fact that there's a connection. He understands the Irish crowds and all that goes with having a Ryder Cup in Ireland."

Harrington, who turns 55 next month, arrives on the back of a third US Senior Open title, as Europe begin their bid for a rare three-peat at Adare Manor in 2027.

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