PGA Tour confirms shutdown of one of its regular-season events

The Rocket Classic will conclude after the 2026 edition, after Rocket Companies chose not to extend its title sponsorship past this season. 

The decision brings an end to the event’s run as part of the PGA Tour schedule since 2019, when it debuted in Detroit as the Rocket Mortgage Classic.

Major changes to the 2027 PGA Tour schedule and difficulty attracting consistently elite fields in a crowded summer schedule are understood to have been contributing factors in the event’s long-term uncertainty.

The 2026 Rocket Classic will take place from 30 July to 2 August at the Detroit Golf Club, following recent restoration work on its North Course.

This year’s field already includes Xander Schauffele, Cameron Young, Russell Henley and Rickie Fowler, providing a strong line-up for what will now be one of the event’s final editions under the Rocket banner.

South Africa's Aldrich Potgieter will also be in the field looking to defend his title. 

Tournament Director Mar Hollis reflected on the event’s impact:

"We are incredibly proud of what this tournament has meant to the city, from creating unforgettable moments for fans to raising more than $10 million for local organizations," Tournament Director Mar Hollis said in a statement.

"When we launched the Rocket Classic, our mission was to shine a national spotlight on Detroit. That mission has been accomplished – our city is celebrated as the model for resilience, innovation and community-driven progress. During the pandemic, we expanded our focus to include bridging the digital divide, helping Detroit make tremendous progress from one of the least digitally connected large cities to a leader in digital inclusion."

The PGA Tour confirmed Rocket’s departure after a 13-year partnership: 

“The PGA Tour is grateful to Rocket, which will conclude a 13-year run as a title sponsor following this year’s Rocket Classic. We remain interested in the Detroit market and will explore options for a new sponsor."

Launched in 2019, the tournament quickly became a key part of Detroit’s sporting calendar and a major community driver through its “Changing the Course” initiative.

Since 2020, the programme has helped address digital inequality in the city, contributing to more than $10 million in charitable investment, including $6 million directly to the initiative. It has connected 162,000 residents to affordable internet programmes, created 22 technology hubs, and distributed more than 77,000 devices.

With Rocket Companies stepping away after 2026, the PGA Tour is expected to explore a new sponsor for Detroit. For now, the event enters its final phase, with two more editions remaining before its current era comes to a close.