The PGA Tour has made the decision to relocate the Genesis Invitational out of Riviera next month due to the devastating wildfires that have impacted parts of Los Angeles, including the Pacific Palisades neighborhood where Riviera is situated. The tournament, which boasts a $20 million purse and has Tiger Woods as its host, is scheduled for Feb. 13-16, with the new venue yet to be determined.
One potential option being considered is moving the event to another golf course already part of the West Coast Swing, albeit away from Los Angeles. This choice would help minimize costs and the time needed to set up a tournament site, including grandstands, corporate hospitality areas, and television structures.
Riviera Country Club, located about 4 miles from the Pacific Ocean and south of Sunset Boulevard, was fortunately unharmed by the wildfires that have resulted in tragic loss of life and destruction of over 12,000 structures. The PGA Tour, in collaboration with Genesis, Riviera Country Club, and TGR Live, the event host, has been deliberate in its decision-making process, waiting for progress in containing the fires before finalizing the relocation.
An announcement regarding the new venue is expected to be made in the near future. The PGA Tour has expressed its commitment to finding ways for the tournament to support the Los Angeles community and the ongoing relief efforts, encouraging individuals to contribute to the cause through its website.
Established 99 years ago, Riviera has a rich history of hosting prestigious golf events, including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. The club is set to host the U.S. Women's Open in 2026 and the golf competition for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, as well as the U.S. Open in 2031 for the first time since 1948.
This will mark the first time since 1998 that the tournament, previously known as the Los Angeles Open, will not be held at Riviera. The decision to relocate in 1998 was due to Riviera preparing to host the U.S. Senior Open that year, with the tournament first being held at Riviera in 1929.
Firefighters continue to battle the Palisades and Eaton fires, with efforts focused on clearing affected areas of toxic ash and debris before any rebuilding can commence. Residents are facing delays in inspecting their homes due to hazardous conditions in burned regions.
Tiger Woods, who has an exemption to participate in signature events this year, has emphasized the importance of prioritizing support for those affected by the wildfires. Woods, speaking during his TMRW Golf League debut, highlighted the current focus on assisting individuals dealing with the aftermath of the fires and ensuring their safety.
