ORLANDO, Florida – The Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard has announced that Orlando’s signature sporting event will become part of the PGA TOUR Championship Series beginning in 2028, continuing a proud legacy of 48 years as the PGA TOUR enters an exciting era with a new competitive model.
The full PGA TOUR schedule for 2028, when the PGA TOUR Championship Series debuts, will be announced at a later date.
“For more than two decades, Mastercard has been proud to partner with the Arnold Palmer Invitational, helping create unforgettable experiences for fans while honoring Arnold Palmer’s enduring legacy of excellence, generosity and community impact,” said Michael Moutenot, SVP, Marketing & Communications, North America, Mastercard. “As one of golf’s most iconic events, the Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard has long brought together the game’s best players on one of its most celebrated stages.
“We’re excited to see the tournament continue to play a prominent role as part of the PGA TOUR Championship Series and look forward to building on our long-standing partnership with the PGA TOUR and the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation.”
Establishing itself as an integral part of the Central Florida community, the Arnold Palmer Invitational benefits the Arnold and Winnie Palmer Foundation supporting youth golf, children’s health, character development, and nature-focused wellness both locally and nationally. The tournament celebrates Arnold Palmer’s impact on the game of golf along with his impact on the community.
“The Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard has a long history showcasing the best of the best in men’s professional golf, and becoming one of the PGA TOUR Championship Series events allows us to further recognize the strength of our tournament while celebrating the legacy of Arnold Palmer,” said Tournament Director Drew Donovan. “Mr. Palmer believed in challenging the world’s best players while creating an unforgettable experience for fans. As a PGA TOUR Championship Series event we will continue to deliver championship golf at Bay Hill and give back to the Central Florida community.”
First announced in June 2026, the PGA TOUR Championship Series will feature the PGA TOUR’s top performers competing head-to-head across the season. There will be approximately 23-24 events, inclusive of THE PLAYERS Championship, major championships, postseason and international team events (Presidents Cup, Ryder Cup), with the season running from February through August.
The 2027 Arnold Palmer Invitational will be contested from March 15-21 with broadcast coverage on NBC and Golf Channel.
Akshay Bhatia won the 2026 event in a sudden-death playoff victory over Daniel Berger for his third-career win. Bhatia started his final round just one-stroke behind then-leader Daniel Berger and after nine holes, faced an uphill battle as Berger’s lead extended to five strokes as the pair made the turn following Bhatia’s bogey on the ninth.
Bhatia scorched the back nine, carding five birdies and an eagle to force sudden death where he sank a par putt on the first playoff hole to win his third PGA TOUR event and first Arnold Palmer Invitational presented by Mastercard.
For tournament information, visit https://arnoldpalmerinvitational.com.