The Hero Indian Open (HIO), recognized as one of Asia's top golf tournaments, is gearing up for its 2026 edition, featuring an elite lineup and unprecedented prize money. Scheduled from March 26-29, 2026, the event will take place at the DLF Golf and Country Club in Gurugram, continuing its legacy at this prestigious venue.

As per the announcement, the prize fund has been raised to a remarkable USD $2.55 million, an increase from last year's USD $2.25 million. Hero MotoCorp has proudly sponsored the tournament since 2005, marking an unbroken partnership that now enters its third decade, a record in both India and Asia. The event has been co-sanctioned with the DP World Tour since 2015, establishing another record for longevity in the region.

The tournament will showcase a stellar lineup, including 24-year-old Indian-American Akshay Bhatia, who recently claimed victory at the Arnold Palmer Invitational 2026 in Orlando, USA. This win, achieved after a thrilling playoff, marks Bhatia's third PGA Tour title. Currently ranked second in the FedEx Cup standings, this will be his inaugural visit to India, fulfilling a long-held dream to compete on home soil.

Another notable participant is Rayhan Thomas, also a Hero MotoCorp Brand Ambassador, who has been competing on the Korn Ferry Tour for the past two years. The field will also feature Italy's Francesco Molinari, a three-time PGA Tour champion and the first Italian to win a Major Championship at the 147th Open Championship in 2018. Molinari has also been part of three victorious Ryder Cup teams.

Confirmed players include reigning HIO champion Eugenio Chacarra from Spain and Belgium's Thomas Detry, who won the Phoenix Open in 2025. Other notable names include South African Casey Jarvis, Spain's Nacho Elvira, and Germany's Freddy Schott, all of whom have recently triumphed on the DP World Tour.

Sanjay Bhan, Executive Vice President of Hero MotoCorp, expressed pride in the long-standing partnership with the HIO, emphasizing their commitment to promoting golf in India. He stated, "With an enhanced prize purse and a world-class field, we are excited to present another thrilling edition of the HIO, welcoming players and fans for a memorable week of golf."

Brijinder Singh, President of the Indian Golf Union, highlighted the significance of the HIO in the Indian golf calendar, stating, "This year's tournament promises to be bigger than ever, featuring top international players alongside India's finest professionals."

Ben Cowen, Chief Tournament and Operations Officer of the DP World Tour, shared his anticipation for the event, acknowledging the ongoing partnership with Hero MotoCorp and the importance of the tournament in promoting golf in India.

First held in 1964, the Hero Indian Open boasts a rich history spanning over six decades, evolving into a flagship event for golf in the region. The DLF Golf and Country Club, known for its challenging course, will once again test the skills of the participating golfers.

Tusch Daroga, Vice President of DLF Golf and Country Club, expressed pride in hosting the HIO, stating, "The Gary Player course is in excellent condition, ready to challenge golfers. We welcome players, officials, and fans for an exciting week of championship golf!"

Entry to the tournament will be free for all spectators throughout the four days, ensuring an unforgettable experience both on and off the course.