Hero MotoCorp extends title sponsorship of Dubai Desert Classic for fourth consecutive year
Hero MotoCorp will continue as title sponsor of the Hero Dubai Desert Classic for the fourth straight year, with Indian golfers Shubhankar Sharma and Yuvraj Singh Sandhu joining the 2026 field.
- $9 million
- 36 years
- 4 years
What Happened
The Hero Dubai Desert Classic, one of Asia's most prestigious golf tournaments with a 36-year legacy and a $9 million prize pool, will hold its 37th edition from January 22, 2026. Hero MotoCorp, the world's largest motorcycle and scooter manufacturer by volume for 25 years, is extending its title sponsorship into a fourth consecutive year. The company's ongoing association with the event reflects its dedication to excellence and support for golf on a global stage.
Indian golfers Shubhankar Sharma and Yuvraj Singh Sandhu have received special invitations from Executive Chairman Dr. Pawan Munjal. Sharma, a two-time DP World Tour winner, will make his eighth consecutive appearance on the Majlis Course, while Sandhu, winner of seven domestic events in 2025 and the PGTI Order of Merit, will debut at the tournament. They are among five invitees, including global stars Dustin Johnson, Joaquín Niemann, and Eddie Pepperell.
The 2026 field also features top players like Rory McIlroy, a four-time winner seeking a record-extending fifth title, along with Major champions Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed, Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowry, Luke Donald, Viktor Hovland, and rising star Jayden Schaper. Past champions include Tiger Woods and Seve Ballesteros.
Why this matters
The sponsorship strengthens Hero MotoCorp's brand presence in global sports and highlights its commitment to golf, a sport with a large international audience.
Terms in This Story
- Title sponsorship
- A sponsorship where the company's name is included in the event's official name, providing prominent brand exposure.
- DP World Tour
- The top professional golf tour in Europe, now part of the global PGA Tour schedule.
- Majlis Course
- The main golf course at the Emirates Golf Club in Dubai, host of the Dubai Desert Classic.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.