• Darren Clarke "extremely proud" to be handed captaincy
• Decision made after five-man committee meeting at Wentworth
• "Darren has impressive Ryder Cup pedigree," says George O'Grady
DARREN CLARKE | RYDER CUP
Darren Clarke has revealed his pride at being chosen as the new European Ryder Cup captain and hopes to lead the team to a fourth consecutive victory over the USA at Hazeltine in 2016.
The 46-year-old, who was a vice-captain in 2010 and 2012, was selected after the meeting of a five-man committee at Wentworth this morning, before being revealed to the public shortly after 12.30pm.
Speaking about his appointment, Darren Clarke said: “I am naturally extremely proud to be selected as European Ryder Cup captain for 2016. The Ryder Cup has been a massive part of my life and career, so to have the chance to lead Europe next year is a huge honour.
“I am lucky to have played and worked under some fantastic captains in my seven Ryder Cups to date, and I look forward to the challenge of trying to follow in their footsteps and help Europe to a fourth consecutive victory at Hazeltine next year.”

Darren Clarke, who was always favourite to land the role, has appeared in the Ryder Cups as both a player and vice-captain, and European Tour chief executive George O’Grady – one of the committee along with David Howell, Colin Montgomerie, Jose Maria Olazabal and Paul McGinley – said that his wealth of experience was a key factor behind the selection.
“Darren has an impressive Ryder Cup pedigree having featured five times as a player and twice as a vice-captain, so he has a strong understanding of the attributes required to be a successful captain.
“He is also a popular figure among the players and has both the passion and knowledge to lead Europe in the quest for a record fourth consecutive Ryder Cup victory.”
Darren Clarke named Team Europe captain :: Your thoughts
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