The Zurich Classic of New Orleans Golf Tournament
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans: Celebrating a legacy of impact, on and beyond the golf course
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans golf tournament is the PGA TOUR’s only team event, showcasing a unique format that highlights teamwork and camaraderie among the world's top golfers. Zurich is proud to be one of the longest-standing title sponsors, with a 22-year history that began just months before Hurricane Katrina in 2005. This enduring partnership has transformed the Zurich Classic into more than just a golf tournament—it's a catalyst for positive change both on and beyond the golf course.
On the course, the Zurich Classic stands out with its distinctive team format, attracting elite players and delivering thrilling, memorable moments year after year. The event also sets a standard for environmental responsibility, with innovative sustainability practices like recycling programs, repurposing materials, and reducing waste. In 2025 the Zurich Classic of New Orleans was recognized for leadership in sustainable golf and sporting events, having successfully achieved GEO Certified® status.
Beyond the course, Zurich's collaboration has generated over $700 million in economic activity and raised more than $35 million for charitable organizations, supporting 200,000 children in need annually. We've raised over $2 million for St. Michael Special School and over $600,000 for Blessings in a Backpack, with last year's tournament setting a record with over $3.6 million in charitable donations.
How the Zurich Classic Works: Format, Team Rules, Cut and Playoff Explained
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans is the PGA TOUR’s only regular season team event, featuring 80 two-player teams (160 golfers) competing over four rounds in a unique alternating format introduced in 2017. Rounds one and three use four-ball (best ball)—where each player plays their own ball and the lower score counts—while rounds two and four use foursomes (alternate shot), requiring teammates to rotate shots on a single ball, emphasizing strategy and trust. After 36 holes, the field is cut to the top 33 teams and ties. If teams are tied after 72 holes, a sudden-death playoff determines the winner, with teams competing in alternate-shot format.
New Orleans sets the stage as Zurich Golf Ambassadors bring the Zurich Classic to life
Key milestones in Zurich Classic history
- 2026 - First time siblings have ever won a PGA Tour event together (Matt and Alex Fitzpatrick). With this win, Alex claimed PGA TOUR status through 2028.
- 2025 - Received GEO Certified® status - for leadership in sustainable golf and sporting events
- 2024 – Zurich celebrates 20 years as title sponsor of the Zurich Classic.
- 2020 – The COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the Zurich Classic. Zurich provided funding equivalent to a typical year’s tournament ($1.5M+) to support children and families during a time of need.
- 2017 – Introduction of the two-man team format (first on the PGA TOUR)
- First winners: Cameron Smith and Jonas Blixt
- 2014 – 10th anniversary of the Zurich Classic
- Z Zurich Foundation gives a $3 million grant to St. Bernard Project for disaster resilience
- 2012 – Zurich celebrates 100 years of Insuring America with the “100 Year Golf Challenge”
- 2005–2006 – Zurich becomes title sponsor of the New Orleans–based PGA TOUR tournament.
- First nationally televised sporting event to return after Hurricane Katrina
- Generated $250,000 in seed money toward a $280 million housing redevelopment serving 685 families
Community impact: Where golf becomes more than a game
The benefits of the Zurich Classic don’t stop with the action at TPC Louisiana. Supporting the community of New Orleans has always been the truly big win of this event. Last year the Classic set a record with more than $3.6 million in charitable donations.
$700M
Economic activity generated in
New Orleans since 2005
Over $35M
Contributions to New Orleans
charities since 2005
200K
Children supported annually by
Zurich Classic charitable giving
$3.6M+
Record charitable donations last year
Zurich Golf Ambassadors
Zurich Golf Ambassadors are professional athletes who represent the Zurich brand and its commitment to excellence, teamwork, and community impact on and off the course. Through their participation, Zurich Golf Ambassadors help amplify the impact of the Zurich Classic—supporting community initiatives in New Orleans and beyond while strengthening Zurich’s global brand as they compete on the PGA TOUR, the DP World Tour, and the LPGA.
Zurich proudly sponsors the following professional golfers:
Albane Valenzuela
Ben Griffin
Billy Horschel
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Sahith Theegala
Sahith Theegala was named a Zurich Golf Ambassador in January of 2023 and quickly made a name for himself on the PGA TOUR. In 2023, Sahith captured his first PGA TOUR victory, the 2023 Fortinet Championship. Additional career highlights include 22 career top-10 finishes and representing the United States in the 2024 Presidents Cup. With the debut of the TMRW Golf League (TGL) Sahith has been playing with the Los Angeles Golf Club Team alongside several former Zurich Golf Ambassadors. Sahith wears the Zurich logo on his left sleeve.
Shane Lowry
FAQs
The Zurich Classic takes place in April, making the most of New Orleans’ great spring weather. Fans and players can enjoy PGA TOUR team play at a lively time in the city. Mark your calendars for April, check the official schedule, and follow the rounds to stay on top of the action.
TPC Louisiana, just outside New Orleans, hosts the Zurich Classic and is known for its challenging layout and beautiful scenery. Designed by Pete Dye, the 7,400-yard, par-72 course features cypress and oak trees, water hazards, and is recognized for environmental efforts. Open to both pros and the public, it offers a welcoming spot for fans to experience PGA TOUR team play at its best.
The Zurich Classic of New Orleans is the PGA TOUR’s only FedExCup team event, and is a 4-day, 72-hole tournament. Two golfers play together as a team, with rounds one and three using four-ball (each plays their own ball, and the lower score counts) and rounds two and four using alternate shot (players take turns hitting the same ball). Scores are tracked by team, making it simple to follow the leaderboard and enjoy the action. This format makes it easy for fans to watch, understand, and cheer for their favorite pairs.
2026 - Matt Fitzpatrick & Alex Fitzpatrick
2025 - Adrew Novak & Ben Griffin
2024 - Rory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
Viewers can always find the latest Zurich Classic of New Orleans results on PGAtour.com. See up-to-date scores, team leaderboards, highlights, and interviews with the winners. Get a clear look at final scores and key plays. Follow your favorite teams and bookmark the site for future tournament updates.
Find ticket options, pricing, and entry rules at Zurichgolfclassic.com. The site covers ticket specials, security, parking, accessibility, schedules, maps, policies, prohibited items, weather protocol, gate hours and safety updates. Review all policies and event details online before you buy.
You can watch the Zurich Classic live on the Golf Channel and CBS, with online streaming available through PGA Tour Live on ESPN+, Paramount+, and the ESPN App. Visit the tournament or PGA TOUR website for up-to-date broadcast schedules, as coverage may shift during event week. Local TV stations may also show highlights and leaderboard changes. For live scores, stats, and video clips, check PGAtour.com. These options help you follow the action from anywhere, whether you’re at home or on the move.
Zurich Golf Ambassadors are professional golfers sponsored by Zurich who represent the brand at tournaments, engage with fans, and support community initiatives connected to the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.
Zurich partners with professional golfers to promote teamwork, excellence, and community impact while increasing visibility for the Zurich Classic and its charitable contributions.