Olazabal to accept Ryder Cup calling

Spaniard set to skipper Europe in 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah

Spanish star Jose Maria Olazabal is the overwhelming favourite to be named Europe’s next Ryder Cup captain when the European Tour’s tournament committee meets this week in Abu Dhabi.

The highly respected Spaniard appears to be the only man in the running and will be offered the job unopposed, reports suggest.

Last year’s successful skipper, Colin Montgomerie, was one of the first to single-out the two-time Masters champion as perfect for the role.

Following the European victory at Celtic Manor, the Scot said: “The passion he brings to any team room… I think he’s everybody’s choice to retain this trophy in America in two years time.

“He watched what was done this time, he has notes over his playing career the same as mine – we both played Ryder Cups, a lot of them together – he has a lot of experience, as much as I have, and I’m sure he will do as good, if not a better, job than I did.”

Amid widespread support, suggestions that Olazabal may be unsuitable for the role due to chronic back problems have subsided, and he is expected to accept the captaincy when, and if, it is offered to him.

Olazabal has played seven times for Europe in the Ryder Cup, winning three of those. He was also second in command to Nick Faldo at Valhalla in 2008.

And, although he wasn’t officially named as a vice-captain during the Celtic Manor contest last October, he stepped in at the last moment to help Montgomerie when rain caused havoc.

If he accepts the skipper’s role, it’s likely that Olazabal will need to rely considerably on an on-tour support team to act as his eyes and ears when he is unable to play tournaments.

Rheumatoid arthritis restricted the Spaniard to only three events in 2010.

Bryce Ritchie is the Editor of bunkered and, in addition to leading on content and strategy, oversees all aspects of the brand. The first full-time journalist employed by bunkered, he joined the company in 2001 and has been editor since 2009. A member of Balfron Golfing Society, he currently plays off nine and once got a lesson from Justin Thomas’ dad.

Editor of bunkered