2022 Dubai Desert Classic champion Viktor Hovland, right, with best amateur Josh Hill. David Cannon

By Matt Smith
The DP World Tour has announced it has cancelled its sponsorship deal with logistics firm Slync.io for the Dubai Desert Classic.

A spokesman for DPWT confirmed that the move, following the suspension of Slync CEO Chris Kirchner, will not affect the $8 million Rolex Series event at Emirates Golf Course, next due to take place from January 26-29, 2023 on the Majlis Course.

“We have reached an agreement with Slync regarding the termination of agreements with us for various DP World Tour assets, including the Dubai Desert Classic title sponsorship,” a DP World Tour spokesman said.

“The tournament will continue to be a part of the Rolex Series and we look forward to the 2023 edition at Emirates Golf Club.”

Tournament organisers added in a statement: “Our relationship is and has always been with the European Tour Group. The Dubai Desert Classic will not be impacted by this announcement and we look forward to delivering another spectacular tournament, in January (26-29), our 34th edition, at the Emirates Golf Club.”

The UAE’s oldest international golf tournament dates back to 1989, and consistently attracts some of the biggest names in the sport including former champions Rory McIlroy, Tiger Woods, Danny Willett, Colin Montgomerie, Fred Couples, Seve Ballesteros and Ernie Els.

Viktor Hovland is the defending champion. The Norwegian triumphed in January in a playoff over veteran Richard Bland after Rory McIlroy dramatically found the water on the 18th during the final round and had to settle for third spot.

Dubai-based youngster Josh Hill was the highest-placed amateur, finishing T55 after a stunning show that included rounds of 70 and 69.

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