England v Spain GC Test Match to Move to Biennial Format

[<<] [>>] by Ian Lines (Chair of International)
1st June (International)

The Croquet England International Committee has agreed with the Spanish Federation to move the annual England v Spain Golf Croquet Test Match to a biennial format from 2026 onwards.

The proposal came from Spain earlier this year, with the aim of strengthening the long-term prestige and competitiveness of the fixture. A two-year cycle will allow both nations greater flexibility in planning, help players manage increasingly busy international schedules, and maximise the chances of the strongest possible teams being available for selection.

Before reaching a decision, the International Committee consulted England's leading GC players, including a number who have represented England in previous Test Matches. The clear consensus was that maintaining the quality and status of the event was the priority, alongside ensuring the schedule worked effectively within the wider international calendar, including the GC World Team Championship cycle.

Following the 2026 Test Match at Bowdon, there will therefore be a gap year in 2027, with the revised rotation beginning in 2028 at Vista Hermosa in Spain.

The next home fixture will now take place in 2030, with Surbiton given priority having been previously selected to host in 2028 - dates and arrangements to be confirmed.

We look forward to continuing this highly valued and competitive international fixture for many years to come.