PGA Tour Americas 2026 1 2026-04-16 2026-04-16 The PGA TOUR Americas season kicks off in spectacular fashion at the Rio Olympic Golf Course in Rio de Janeiro for the 71st edition of the ECP Brazil Open. The primary challenge of this 7,163-yard, par-71 Gil Hanse design is its links-style layout, featuring expansive bunkers and a total lack of trees, which leaves players completely exposed to the Atlantic coastal winds. The objective for the field—making their inaugural start of the 2026 season—is to navigate the firm, fast-running fairways while managing the tactical nuances of the course’s iconic "Olympic" bunkering. Strategically, the goal for Round 1 is to take advantage of the calmer morning conditions before the sea breeze intensifies in the afternoon. The tactical focus for the 144-player field is to maximize scoring on the three par-5s, particularly the closing 18th, which offers a dramatic risk-reward finale. With the pursuit of the Fortinet Cup officially underway, the ultimate goal for the opening round is to post a low score to challenge the course record of 61 and establish an early lead in the race for Korn Ferry Tour membership. 2466523