Ryder Cuppa 2026

Ryder Cuppa 2026 – The Cups Come Up Trumps!

The annual Ryder Cuppa took place on Thursday 15th October 2026, with 36 golfers qualifying for selection based on one simple criterion: filling in a form! Despite the complete absence of World Ranking points on offer, everyone entered into the spirit of the occasion, sporting red hats, USA golf bags and a variety of European attire.

Respect between the two teams was, of course, in plentiful supply – well, perhaps not quite! Leading the European team, affectionately known as The Cups, was Fred Hughes, while Dean Burgess captained the USA side, better known as The Saucers.

Once the enthusiastic cries of “USA! USA!” (singing might be stretching the description a little) had finally died down, the teams headed out for 18 holes of competition: six holes of alternate-shot foursomes, six holes of pairs match play and six holes of singles match play.

The Saucers came into the day with an impressive record, having never lost since the competition was first conceived just a few years ago. The pressure was therefore firmly on Fred, who had captained the Saucers in last year’s event and was now hoping to turn the tables. Dean, meanwhile, was full of confidence, convinced that his team of superstars had the competition safely in the bag.

Things initially went according to plan for The Saucers, who made the strong start they wanted and built up a comfortable lead as the scores began to come in. Fred and The Cups looked to be heading for defeat, and Fred himself was becoming increasingly despondent. Mind you, as a Stoke City supporter, he is no stranger to disappointment!

However, just when all seemed lost, The Cups mounted a late comeback. In a finish reminiscent of a last-minute Stoke winner, they somehow found a way to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. Whether it was a genuine late surge or simply a case of selective scorekeeping, we shall leave readers to decide!

Final Result

The Cups 39 – The Saucers 33

Congratulations to Fred Hughes and The Cups on ending The Saucers’ unbeaten run and claiming the Ryder Cuppa trophy for 2026.

Commiserations to Dean Burgess and The Saucers, who will no doubt be back next year determined to reclaim their bragging rights.

One thing is certain: the Ryder Cuppa continues to deliver plenty of competitive golf, good humour and team spirit – and the post-match discussions are likely to last considerably longer than the 18 holes themselves!

Well done, The Cups!