The European Tour is warning its players that everything from prize money to player services will be different when golf resumes because of the COVID-19 pandemic that will have a profound financial impact, according to a British newspaper.
The Daily Telegraph reported Tuesday it has obtained a memo from chief executive Keith Pelley to members that outlines the sobering effect of the coronavirus that has shut down golf in Europe since early March.
Eight tournaments have been postponed. Five others, including the British Open, have been canceled. The next event still on the schedule is the BMW International Open in Germany from June 25-28.
Pelley said the pandemic has stopped the tour's momentum in tournaments and prize money and will require it to reassess how it goes forward.
"You should therefore be prepared that when we do resume playing, the schedule and the infrastructure of tournaments could look radically different from what you have been used to," the memo said.
"Many of the things you have become accustomed to, such as top-class players' lounges or courtesy car services will most likely assume a different appearance, if indeed they are present at all."
Pelley said the Rolex Series and UK events are a priority for the tour and broadcaster Sky Sports, and that it will "play behind closed doors if necessary."
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