Luke Donald confirms expected vice-captain pick for 2027 Ryder Cup

Luke Donald has strengthened his leadership team for the 2027 Ryder Cup by confirming Francesco Molinari as his second vice-captain for Europe's title defence at Adare Manor in Ireland.

Molinari will once again work alongside his brother Edoardo Molinari in Donald's backroom team, marking the third consecutive Ryder Cup that both Italians have served as vice-captains. 

The pair were part of Europe's victorious campaigns in Rome in 2023 and at Bethpage in 2025.

Europe will now look to secure a third straight Ryder Cup victory when the contest celebrates its 100th anniversary at Adare Manor from 17-19 September 2027.

Molinari admitted accepting Donald's invitation was an easy decision after enjoying two memorable experiences as vice-captain.

"I was very pleased when Luke asked me," said Molinari. 

"Rome and New York were two very different experiences, but both were among the best weeks of my life.

"Any time you're asked to be involved with the Ryder Cup, there's only one answer. I'm honoured to be part of it again and can't wait for Ireland."

The 42-year-old also praised Donald's leadership, describing the Englishman as one of the finest Ryder Cup captains he has witnessed.

"Luke has been a fantastic leader and has grown into the role with every experience," Molinari said. 

"His communication with players and staff is exceptional, and what I saw at Bethpage was the best captaincy performance I've experienced in any Ryder Cup."

Donald said Molinari's Ryder Cup pedigree, calm personality and strong relationships with players made him an obvious choice.

"Francesco has been an integral part of our success over the last two Ryder Cups," Donald said. 

"He brings experience, perspective and a deep understanding of what it takes to win this event.

"The players know and trust him, and he plays a huge role in helping create the culture and atmosphere we've built within the team."

Molinari's Ryder Cup credentials are among the strongest in European golf. 

The Italian represented Europe as a player on three winning teams and famously became the first European to win all five of his matches during the record 17½-10½ victory over the United States at Le Golf National in Paris in 2018.

That same season, Molinari claimed The Open Championship at Carnoustie, becoming Italy's first men's major champion.

A six-time DP World Tour winner and former Race to Dubai champion, Molinari has remained heavily involved in team golf since his playing days, captaining Continental Europe in both the Team Cup and Hero Cup.

His appointment further reinforces the continuity Donald believes has been central to Europe's recent Ryder Cup success as preparations begin for another showdown with the United States on Irish soil.