
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026 is set to bring the world’s top women golfers to Arizona for an exciting week of competition. From the full player field to detailed schedules, tee times, prize money, and tips for attending or watching live, this guide has everything fans need to know.
Whether you’re planning to catch the action on-site at Whirlwind Golf Club or follow from home, keep reading to get the complete lowdown on the 2026 championship.
What is Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026?
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026 is a professional women’s golf tournament on the LPGA Tour schedule. The event brings many of the world’s top female golfers to compete at Whirlwind Golf Club – Cattail Course in Chandler, Arizona, United States.
Played over four rounds of stroke play, the championship features a strong international field competing for prize money, world ranking points, and an important victory early in the LPGA season. The tournament has quickly become one of the notable stops on the tour thanks to its competitive field and challenging desert course conditions.
The 2026 edition continues the event’s reputation for attracting leading players from around the world while showcasing a course that rewards accuracy, smart course management, and consistent scoring.
Key Facts About the Championship
- Part of the 2026 LPGA Tour schedule.
- Played at Whirlwind Golf Club – Cattail Course in Chandler, Arizona.
- Features a full field of top LPGA Tour professionals.
- Contested over four rounds (72 holes) of stroke play.
- Includes a cut after the first two rounds.
- Offers official Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings points.
- Attracts many of the world’s highest-ranked women golfers.
- Provides a multi-million-dollar prize purse.
- Played on a desert-style championship golf course.
- Broadcast to golf fans around the world.
History of Ford Championship
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass was introduced as a new tournament on the LPGA Tour calendar in 2024. The event was created to bring another major professional women’s golf tournament to Arizona, expanding the tour’s presence in the western United States.
Hosted at Whirlwind Golf Club – Cattail Course, the championship quickly gained attention because of its strong player field and competitive scoring conditions. The course offers wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and desert landscapes that challenge players throughout the tournament week.
Since its debut, the tournament has attracted many of the top players in women’s golf and has become a popular event for fans attending in Chandler and viewers watching worldwide.
Notable Milestones Include:
The Ford Championship made its LPGA Tour debut in 2024, with Nelly Korda claiming the inaugural title. The following year, Hyo Joo Kim won in dramatic fashion, taking the 2025 championship at -22 in a playoff, which is one of the most competitive finishes in the event’s short history.
In just two editions, the tournament has established itself as one of the stronger early-season stops on the LPGA Tour, drawing a field that regularly includes players from the top 20 of the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings.
Furthermore, television and streaming audiences have increased with each edition, reflecting the growing profile of the championship on the global women’s golf calendar.
What Makes This Championship Unique?
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass stands out because of its desert golf setting at Whirlwind Golf Club – Cattail Course. The course features wide fairways, large greens, and natural desert areas that require careful shot placement and strong course strategy.
Weather conditions in Arizona can also influence play. Warm temperatures and occasional desert winds add another layer of challenge, forcing players to manage distance control and ball flight throughout the tournament.
Another unique aspect of the event is the strong international field. With players from many countries competing on the LPGA Tour, the championship highlights the global growth of women’s professional golf while giving fans in the United States the chance to watch world-class competition in a modern championship venue.
When and Where Does 2026 Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass Held?
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026 will take place from March 26 to March 29, 2026. The tournament will be played at Whirlwind Golf Club – Cattail Course, located in Chandler, Arizona, just outside Phoenix, Arizona.
This venue has become known for its desert-style layout and wide playing areas that still require precision to score well. The course sits within the Gila River Indian Community, offering a scenic setting with mountain views and natural desert surroundings. During tournament week, many of the top players from the LPGA Tour will compete across four rounds of stroke play.
Course Details: Whirlwind Golf Club, Cattail Course
This course is one of the premier golf venues in Arizona. It sits within the Gila River Indian Community and is known for its wide fairways, desert scenery, and challenging green complexes.
Designed by renowned golf course architect Gary Panks, the Cattail Course blends natural desert terrain with modern championship course design.
Key Specs
- Location: Chandler, Arizona
- Par: 72
- Approximate Yardage: Around 6,675 yards for LPGA competition
- Course Designer: Gary Panks
- Course Style: Desert parkland layout with strategic bunkering
- Greens: Large and fast, requiring precise approach shots
Key Highlights of the Course
The Cattail Course is known for its open desert surroundings and carefully designed layout that allows players to attack the course while still requiring smart decision-making.
Highlights include:
- Wide landing areas that encourage aggressive tee shots.
- Strategic bunkers placed to challenge approach shots.
- Smooth putting surfaces that reward strong putting performance.
- Scenic desert views surrounding the fairways.
- A layout that allows for both birdie opportunities and scoring swings.
Unique Features and Signature Holes
Several holes at venue stand out during tournament play.
- Risk-reward par-5 holes that offer eagle opportunities for long hitters.
- Challenging par-3 holes where precise iron play is required.
- Finishing holes designed for dramatic finishes, often creating exciting leaderboard changes on Sunday.
- Natural desert landscaping that gives the course a distinctive Arizona feel.
These features make the course both visually appealing and strategically demanding for LPGA professionals.
Challenges for Players
Despite its wide fairways, the course presents several challenges that test every part of a player’s game.
- Fast greens that require precise putting control.
- Strategic bunkering around landing areas and greens.
- Long approach shots on several par-4 holes.
- Risk-reward decision making on scoring holes.
- Changing wind conditions that affect ball flight and distance.
Players who combine strong ball striking with solid course management often perform well at this venue.
Weather and Course Conditions for 2026
Late March typically provides excellent golf conditions in Arizona, making it an ideal time to host the tournament.
Typical conditions include:
- Warm daytime temperatures, often ranging between 70°F and 85°F (21–29°C).
- Low humidity, creating firm and fast playing conditions.
- Light desert winds, which can influence shot selection and ball flight.
- Dry course conditions that allow the ball to roll farther on fairways.
These conditions often lead to competitive scoring and exciting finishes, as players look to take advantage of the scoring opportunities throughout the course.
LPGA Ford Championship Tournament Format
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass follows the traditional tournament structure used on the LPGA Tour. Players compete in a four-round stroke play event, where each golfer completes 18 holes per round over four days. The player with the lowest total score after 72 holes is declared the champion.
Rather than match play, every competitor plays against the entire field and the course itself throughout the week. This format rewards consistency, strong ball-striking, and the ability to handle pressure over multiple rounds.
Tournament Format Breakdown
- Format Type: Stroke Play
- Number of Rounds: 4 (Thursday through Sunday)
- Total Holes: 72
- Cut Line: After 36 holes (two rounds), only the top 65 players and ties advance to the weekend rounds.
- Field Size: Around 144 players (final field confirmed before the tournament).
- Playoff Rules: If players are tied after 72 holes, the winner is decided in a sudden-death playoff until one player records the lowest score on a hole.
- Tour Points: Players earn official Rolex Women’s World Golf Ranking points and LPGA Tour points.
This format keeps the competition intense across all four rounds as players fight to stay above the cut line and move up the leaderboard.
Round Format Breakdown
Although exact tee times and pairings are released closer to tournament week, the typical round structure is similar to most LPGA Tour events.
Thursday & Friday (Rounds 1 and 2)
- Players are grouped in threesomes.
- Tee times are split between Hole 1 and Hole 10.
- Morning and afternoon waves help balance playing conditions.
- After the second round, the cut determines which players advance to the weekend.
Saturday (Round 3)
- Players who make the cut are regrouped based on total scores.
- Lower-scoring players start later in the day.
- Leaderboard movement begins to shape the final round competition.
Sunday (Final Round)
- Final pairings are arranged according to leaderboard position.
- The leading group tees off last.
- Television coverage typically focuses on the final groups during the afternoon.
If players finish tied at the end of the final round, a sudden-death playoff is used to determine the champion, creating a dramatic finish to the tournament.
Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass Rules
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass follows the official rules used across the LPGA Tour. These regulations are based on the Rules of Golf governed by the United States Golf Association and The R&A.
All players, caddies, and tournament officials must follow these rules throughout the competition week. Tournament referees are present on the course to monitor play, resolve rule questions, and ensure the event runs fairly and smoothly.
General Rules
- Stroke Play Format: Players compete to complete the course in the fewest total strokes over four rounds (72 holes).
- Scorekeeping: Each player keeps a scorecard that must be confirmed by a fellow competitor and officially signed after the round.
- Pace of Play: Players are required to maintain an appropriate pace. Slow play may result in warnings or penalties.
- Player Conduct: Competitors and caddies must follow professional behavior standards. Misconduct or rule violations can lead to penalties or disqualification.
- Equipment Rules: All clubs, balls, and equipment must meet United States Golf Association and The R&A regulations.
- Caddie Policies: Caddies are allowed but must follow LPGA dress codes, conduct rules, and tournament policies during play.
For Ties and Playoffs
If two or more players finish tied for first place after 72 holes, the champion is decided through a sudden-death playoff.
- The playoff begins immediately after the final round.
- Tournament officials select the starting hole for the playoff.
- Players compete hole by hole until one player records a lower score than the others.
- The first player to win a hole outright is declared the tournament champion.
For ties in other positions (such as top-10 finishes), no playoff is held. Instead, tied players share the position, and prize money is divided equally among them.
For Weather Delays
Weather conditions in Arizona during late March are usually favorable, but delays can still occur if conditions become unsafe.
- Play Suspension: If lightning, strong winds, or other dangerous weather develops, tournament officials will immediately suspend play.
- Resuming Play: Once conditions are safe, players return to the course and continue from the exact spot where play stopped.
- Schedule Changes: If a round cannot be completed in one day, play resumes the following morning.
- Shortened Tournament: If weather prevents all four rounds from being completed, officials may reduce the event to 54 or 36 holes if necessary.
Final decisions regarding delays, schedule changes, or tournament format adjustments are made by officials from the LPGA Tour tournament committee to ensure fairness and safety for everyone involved.
Schedule of Events and Tee Times
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026 will feature four days of official LPGA Tour competition, with players competing across four championship rounds at the course. Fans can follow live action throughout the week.
(All times listed below are GMT+5:30 and subject to change.)
Full Schedule of Events
| Day | Date | Event |
| Thursday | March 26, 2026 | Round 1 – Ford Championship |
| Friday | March 27, 2026 | Round 2 – Cut Determined |
| Saturday | March 28, 2026 | Round 3 – Moving Day |
| Sunday | March 29, 2026 | Final Round – Championship Decided |
Tee times for each round are typically released shortly before tournament play begins and may change depending on weather or tournament operations. For official player entries, pairings, and updated tee times, visit the LPGA Tour Ford Championship event page.
Tee Times for the 2026 Ford Championship
- Tee times are split between Hole 1 and Hole 10 for fairness across morning and afternoon waves.
- Players are grouped in threesomes during the first two rounds, with weekend groups adjusted based on leaderboard position.
- Final round tee times prioritize leaders in the last groups to maximize championship visibility.
- Any adjustments due to weather or operational needs are announced on the official LPGA Tour channels.
Fan Experience Highlights
- Live LPGA Tour Competition: Watch top female golfers compete across all four rounds.
- Practice Round Access: Early-week sessions provide fans a chance to see players warm up and prepare.
- International Player Field: Experience global competition with players from multiple countries.
- Moving Day Excitement: Saturday often reshapes the leaderboard ahead of the final round.
- Championship Sunday: Final-round drama, trophy presentation, and season-defining performances.
- Scenic Desert Venue: Enjoy golf against the Sonoran Desert backdrop with mountain views.
For the latest tee times, featured group announcements, and daily updates, fans should check official LPGA Tour communications during tournament week.
How Players Qualify for LPGA Ford Championship in 2026
Players qualify for the Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026 through official eligibility categories set by the LPGA Tour. As one of the prominent early-season tournaments on the tour schedule, the event attracts a strong international field based on performance, world rankings, tour membership status, and sponsor invitations.
Normally, the final player field is confirmed shortly before tournament week once exemptions and alternate entries are finalized.
Qualification Criteria
Players can earn entry into the Ford Championship through several LPGA Tour qualification pathways:
- Winners of recent LPGA Tour tournaments.
- The defending Ford Championship champion.
- Players ranked highly in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings.
- LPGA Tour members eligible through the official Priority List.
- Top performers from the previous LPGA Tour season.
- Epson Tour graduates who earned LPGA Tour membership.
- LPGA Tour rookies with full playing privileges.
- Sponsor exemptions provided by tournament organizers.
- Alternates added if players withdraw before the entry deadline.
These qualification routes help ensure a competitive field that includes established champions, rising talents, and international players.
Overview of the Player Field
The 2026 Ford Championship is expected to draw one of the strongest fields in the tournament’s short history. With World No. 1 Jeeno Thitikul headlining the entry list alongside defending champion Hyo Joo Kim, the Cattail Course will host a genuinely elite group of competitors across all four rounds.
The field reflects the global nature of women’s professional golf, with players from Asia, Europe, North America, and beyond competing for the $2.25 million purse in Chandler, Arizona.
Established Stars and Past Champions
- Jeeno Thitikul — World No. 1 in the Rolex Women’s World Golf Rankings since August 2025 and the clear favorite heading into the week.
- Hyo Joo Kim — Defending champion returning to the Cattail Course after her playoff victory in 2025 at -22 under par.
- Nelly Korda — Inaugural 2024 Ford Championship winner and Olympic gold medalist, entering as one of the most dangerous players in the field.
- Lydia Ko — Olympic gold medalist and LPGA Hall of Fame member, bringing experience and consistency to the lineup.
- Lilia Vu — Runner-up in the previous edition and someone with a clear motivation to go one better this year.
- Charley Hull — Winner of the PIF Saudi Ladies International and one of the most in-form European players on tour.
Contenders and Rising Names
The field beyond the top stars is equally competitive. Celine Boutier, Ariya Jutanugarn, Ruoning Yin, and Jennifer Kupcho all bring major championship pedigree, while Allisen Corpuz and A Lim Kim rank among the stronger ball strikers in the field.
Emerging players including Mao Saigo, Maja Stark, and Miyu Yamashita are also expected to feature, representing a younger generation capable of challenging the established names over four rounds in Arizona.
Local and Arizona Connections
The tournament also carries strong local significance. Sarah Schmelzel, a Phoenix-area native and Solheim Cup team member, is expected to compete in front of a home crowd.
Furthermore, several former Arizona State University players are also in the field, including Carlota Ciganda, Linn Grant, Anna Nordqvist, and Linnea Strom, adding a collegiate connection to the championship week.
Important Note: Player participation may change before tournament week due to withdrawals or scheduling adjustments. Entries officially close on March 18, and fans should check the official LPGA Tour Ford Championship event page for the latest confirmed field.
Prize Money for LPGA Ford Championship in 2026
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026 offers a strong prize fund as part of the LPGA Tour schedule, rewarding top performances while providing valuable ranking points and career benefits. Performing well in the course can significantly influence a player’s season, world ranking, and long-term tour status.
Total Purse and Winner’s Share
- Total Purse: $2,250,000 (Confirmed for 2026)
- Winner’s Share: $337,500 (Estimated for 2026)
The champion receives the largest payout after completing four rounds with the lowest total score. Prize money is distributed among players who make the 36-hole cut, following LPGA Tour payout guidelines.
Top Finishers Prize Breakdown (Estimated)
| Finish Position | Estimated Earnings (USD) |
| Champion | $337,500 |
| Runner-Up | $210,000 |
| Third Place | $155,000 |
| Fourth Place | $120,000 |
| Fifth Place | $95,000 |
| Sixth Place | $80,000 |
| Seventh Place | $70,000 |
| Top 10 Finish | $55,000 – $65,000 (approx.) |
Note: Final payouts follow official LPGA Tour rules and may vary depending on ties or final confirmation.
Points, Exemptions, and Competitive Rewards
- 500 Race to the CME Globe Points: High finishes earn season-long 500 points toward LPGA standings.
- Rolex Women’s World Golf Ranking Points: Strong results improve global rankings.
- LPGA Tour Status Security: Solid performances help players maintain full tour membership.
- Major Championship Qualification: Top finishes can lead to invitations to majors.
- Increased Visibility: Exceptional play attracts sponsor attention and international recognition.
Additional Long-Term Impacts
- Career Achievement: Winning the Ford Championship adds a prestigious LPGA title to a player’s resume.
- Season Momentum: Early-season success builds confidence for the rest of the LPGA schedule.
- Financial Stability: Prize earnings support travel, training, and long-term tour participation.
- Global Exposure: Worldwide broadcast coverage enhances recognition across international markets.
Prize money figures and competitive rewards are subject to final confirmation by LPGA Tour officials before tournament week.
How to Watch and Attend the 2026 LPGA Ford Championship
Fans can follow the Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026 either through in-person attendance at Whirlwind Golf Club – Cattail Course or by accessing official streaming platforms. The event provides spectators with a premium on-site experience while keeping fans around the world connected to the tournament action.
Broadcast Schedule
Live coverage of the Ford Championship is provided through official LPGA Tour broadcast partners. The schedule below shows estimated streaming and television times in GMT+5:30.
| Date | Round | Coverage Time | TV / Streaming |
| Thursday, Mar 26 | Round 1 – Competition Day 1 | 3:30 AM – 4:30 AM | Stream Golf Channel |
| Thursday, Mar 26 | Round 1 – Competition Day 1 | 4:30 AM – 6:30 AM | Golf Channel Live |
| Friday, Mar 27 | Round 2 – Competition Day 2 | 3:30 AM – 4:30 AM | Stream Golf Channel |
| Friday, Mar 27 | Round 2 – Competition Day 2 | 4:30 AM – 6:30 AM | Golf Channel Live |
| Saturday, Mar 28 | Round 3 – Competition Day 3 | 3:30 AM – 4:30 AM | Stream Golf Channel |
| Saturday, Mar 28 | Round 3 – Competition Day 3 | 4:30 AM – 6:30 AM | Golf Channel Live |
| Sunday, Mar 29 | Final Round – Competition Day 4 | 3:30 AM – 4:30 AM | Stream Golf Channel |
| Sunday, Mar 29 | Final Round – Competition Day 4 | 4:30 AM – 6:30 AM | Golf Channel Live |
Broadcast times are estimated and subject to official LPGA confirmation.
Streaming Options Include
- Golf Channel App and Website – Live simulcast of television coverage.
- LPGA Official Website and Mobile App – Live leaderboard, scoring updates, and featured coverage.
- International Streaming Partners – Region-specific online platforms depending on broadcasting rights.
Ticket Information and On-Site Access
Spectators can attend the 2026 Ford Championship in person at Whirlwind Golf Club. Ticket options include general admission and premium packages.
| Date | Ticket Type | Price (USD) | Notes |
| Mar 26 | Competition Day 1 – General Admission | $46 | Entry for 1–24 tickets, basic viewing areas |
| Mar 26 | Competition Day 1 – Trophy Club | $234 | All-inclusive food and beverage, premium seating |
| Mar 27 | Competition Day 2 – General Admission | $46 | Same as Day 1 |
| Mar 27 | Competition Day 2 – Trophy Club | $234 | Premium amenities |
| Mar 28 | Competition Day 3 – General Admission | $56 | Entry for 1–24 tickets |
| Mar 28 | Competition Day 3 – Trophy Club | $234 | All-inclusive package |
| Mar 29 | Competition Day 4 – General Admission | $56 | Entry for 1–24 tickets |
| Mar 29 | Competition Day 4 – Trophy Club | $234 | All-inclusive package |
| TBD | Weekly Pass – General Admission | $129 | Full tournament access, 1–24 tickets |
| TBD | Weekly Pass – Trophy Club | $899 | Premium access with food & beverage |
[Source: SeatGeek – Ford Championship Tickets ]
Additional On-Site Information
- Arrive early to enjoy warm-ups, practice sessions, and scenic course views.
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended due to expansive viewing areas.
- Follow marshal instructions and designated spectator paths during play.
- Premium seating (Trophy Club) includes all-inclusive food and beverage options.
- Morning rounds often offer cooler temperatures and easier access to viewing favorite players.
- Check official LPGA sources for updated tee times, featured groups, and last-minute ticket availability.
The 2026 Ford Championship offers an immersive experience, whether attending live or following the competition online.
What to Expect in 2026
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026 promises four days of world-class LPGA Tour competition at the venue, combining top-tier women’s golf, international player representation, and a premier desert golf experience. Fans attending or following the event can expect:
- Elite Field: World No. 1 Jeeno Thitikul, past champions Hyo Joo Kim and Lydia Ko, and rising LPGA stars competing for a $2.25 million purse.
- Four Championship Rounds: Official play runs March 26–29, 2026, following practice activities earlier in the week.
- Challenging Desert Layout: Whirlwind Golf Club’s Cattail Course features strategic bunkering, large greens, and elevation changes that test every aspect of a player’s game.
- Fan-Friendly Experience: Multiple viewing areas, premium seating, and on-site amenities enhance the spectator experience.
- Scenic Arizona Setting: The course’s desert landscapes, lakes, and signature holes provide a visually stunning backdrop for fans and players alike.
Travel, Parking, and Accommodations Guide for Ford Championship 2026
Getting to Whirlwind Golf Club
The championship is hosted at Whirlwind Golf Club at Wild Horse Pass in Chandler, Arizona. The venue is easily accessible from:
- Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX): Approximately 30–35 minutes by car from the course.
- Local Taxi & Ride-Share Services: Uber, Lyft, and local taxi services are widely available.
- Hotel Shuttles: Many nearby resorts provide transportation directly to the course.
Transportation Options
- Personal Vehicles: Driving is common; GPS navigation recommended.
- Shuttles & Ride-Sharing: Available for select hotels and parking areas.
- Early Arrival: Recommended to avoid congestion and secure preferred viewing locations.
Parking Options
- General Spectator Parking: Typically designated near the course with walking access or shuttles.
- Premium Parking Passes: Available for Trophy Club and VIP ticket holders, often adjacent to exclusive seating areas.
- On-Site Guidance: Marshals direct traffic and parking; follow official instructions.
[Explore Available Parking Options: SeatGeek – Ford Championship Parking Tickets]
Nearby Accommodations
- Luxury Resorts: Ak-Chin Southern Dunes and nearby Chandler resorts provide premium access and amenities.
- Mid-Range Hotels: Multiple options in Chandler, Mesa, and Phoenix offer convenient drives to the course.
- Vacation Rentals: Ideal for groups or multi-day stays, available through local platforms.
- Travel Tip: March is a popular golf season in Arizona; early booking of flights and accommodations is highly recommended.
Additional Tips for Spectators
- Wear comfortable walking shoes; the course covers a large area.
- Bring sun protection, water, and hats for daytime rounds.
- Arrive early to enjoy practice sessions and warm-ups.
- Follow all spectator paths and marshal instructions to ensure safety.
- Check daily tee times and featured groups before arrival for optimal viewing.
Charity and Community Impact
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass also contributes to the local community and golf development:
- Supporting Women’s Golf: Inspires young golfers and promotes professional women’s golf in the U.S.
- Local Youth Programs: Clinics and initiatives introduce juniors to the sport.
- Tourism and Economic Boost: Attracts visitors, benefiting local businesses, hotels, and restaurants.
- Community Engagement: Special events and sponsor programs connect the tournament with the Phoenix area.
- Global Exposure: Broadcast coverage highlights Arizona as a premier destination for golf and international sporting events.
The 2026 Ford Championship combines elite golf, fan accessibility, and meaningful community impact, making it one of the most anticipated stops on the LPGA Tour.
Final Thoughts
The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026 promises an action-packed week of elite women’s golf in the scenic desert of Chandler, Arizona. With a world-class player field, challenging Cattail Course layout, and a $2.25 million purse, the tournament offers both thrilling competition and memorable moments for fans.
Whether attending in person or following online, spectators can enjoy a fan-friendly experience, from premium viewing areas to live streaming options. Beyond the competition, the event also contributes to the local community, supports women’s golf, and showcases Arizona as a premier destination for international sports.
For golf enthusiasts, the 2026 Ford Championship is an unmissable stop on the LPGA Tour calendar.
Key Takeaways
- The Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass 2026 is part of the LPGA Tour and will be played at Whirlwind Golf Club – Cattail Course in Chandler, Arizona.
- The tournament runs from March 26–29, 2026, featuring four championship rounds of stroke play.
- The field includes top-ranked LPGA players, major champions, rising stars, and international competitors.
- The total prize purse is $2.25 million, with the winner expected to earn approximately $337,500.
- The Cattail Course offers a challenging desert layout with strategic bunkers, large greens, and scenic Arizona landscapes.
- Tee times are split between Hole 1 and Hole 10, and groups are adjusted over the weekend based on leaderboard positions.
- Fans can watch the tournament live on Golf Channel, stream coverage online, or attend in person with general admission or premium Trophy Club tickets.
- Spectators are advised to arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, use sun protection, and follow marshal instructions for a smooth experience.
- The championship supports women’s golf, local youth programs, and contributes to the Phoenix area economy through tourism and community engagement.
- Weather in late March usually offers warm, dry conditions, creating an ideal setting for competitive scoring and exciting finishes.
FAQs
Who is the defending champion of the Ford Championship?
Hyo Joo Kim is the defending champion, having won the 2025 edition of the Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass in a playoff at -22 under par. Nelly Korda won the inaugural edition in 2024.
What channel is the Ford Championship on in 2026?
The 2026 Ford Championship is broadcast live on Golf Channel across all four rounds. Fans can also stream coverage through the Golf Channel app and website. International viewers can access the tournament through region-specific streaming partners depending on local broadcast rights.
What is the cut line at the Ford Championship?
The cut is made after the first two rounds — Thursday and Friday. Only the top 65 players and ties advance to the weekend rounds on Saturday and Sunday. Players who miss the cut do not receive prize money for the event.
Who won the Ford Championship presented by Wild Horse Pass in previous years?
Nelly Korda won the inaugural Ford Championship in 2024. Hyo Joo Kim followed with a playoff victory in 2025, finishing at -22 under par. The 2026 edition will be the third time the tournament has been held.
How much is the prize money for the 2026 Ford Championship?
The total prize purse for the 2026 Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass is $2,250,000. The winner is expected to earn approximately $337,500. Prize money is distributed among all players who make the 36-hole cut, following official LPGA Tour payout guidelines.
Can I park at Whirlwind Golf Club during the tournament?
Yes, general spectator parking is available at and near Whirlwind Golf Club during tournament week. Premium parking passes are also available for Trophy Club and VIP ticket holders, offering parking closer to the venue. Marshals are on-site to direct traffic and parking throughout each competition day. It is recommended to arrive early to avoid congestion, especially on weekend rounds.
How can I buy tickets for the 2026 Ford Championship?
Tickets for the 2026 Ford Championship pres. by Wild Horse Pass are available through SeatGeek.com and the official tournament website at fordchampionship.com. General admission starts at $46 per day, with weekly passes available from $129. Premium Trophy Club packages, which include all-inclusive food and beverage, start at $234 per day or $899 for a weekly pass.

