Estrella Damm backing sees prize fund increased for Andalucía Masters

Estrella Damm, the premium lager brand of the Spanish brewing company Damm, has become the new title sponsor of European Tour golf tournament the Andalucía Masters under a five-year deal that will boost the event’s prize purse.

The deal will run from 2019 to 2023, with major champion Sergio Garcia heralding the new era for the event by confirming he will return to defend his title, as well as host the event once again through his foundation.

The Estrella Damm N.A. Andalucía Masters hosted by the Sergio Garcia Foundation returned to the European Tour schedule in 2017 after a six-year gap.

The tournament, at Real Club Valderrama, is also supported by the Junta de Andalucía, and will this year take its place in a new summer date on the European Tour, from June 27-30. As part of the new partnership, the prize fund will rise to €3m ($3.35m) – an increase of €1m from 2018.

Jorge Villavecchia, director generlof Damm, said: “This will without doubt contribute to the internationalisation of the company, one of the pillars of our strategic plan. It is also a great privilege that the event is being held at the Real Club Valderrama, an unmatchable venue.

“Sport is in Damm’s DNA, which is why the sponsorship of the tournament not only highlights the company’s commitment to golf, but also that of Damm to sport and society.”

Keith Pelley, chief executive of the European Tour, added: “We pride ourselves in being associated with some of the best and most prestigious companies across the world and Estrella Damm fits into that category. To have a tournament on the European Tour secured at one of the great and iconic courses in the world, not just in Europe, for the next five years, is terrific.”