The Open set for largest arena in its history

This year’s champion at the Open at St Andrews will be crowned in front of the largest arena in the Championship’s 155-year history.

The spectacular new grandstand arena, seating almost 10,000 people will be created around the famous first, 17th and 18th holes of the Old Course for the Open.

For the first time, a two-tiered grandstand will be erected behind the 18th green to further enhance the extraordinary atmosphere created by the grandstands located alongside the adjoining first fairway.

The arena will be completed by a new L-shaped grandstand, constructed behind the 17th green, and a stand sited by the first green.

“We want to make sure as many spectators as possible can experience that unique atmosphere” – Johnnie Cole-Hamilton

The grandstand behind the famous Road Hole will have a capacity of more than 4,000 and offer spectators a panoramic view of the 17th, 18th, first and second holes.

Johnnie Cole-Hamilton, executive director of championships at the R&A, said: “There is always an incredible atmosphere at the Open and particularly when it is held in St Andrews.

“We want to make sure as many spectators as possible can experience that unique atmosphere and enjoy wonderful views of the play on the opening and closing holes.

“The new arena will provide a fantastic setting for the climax of the Open Championship at the 72nd hole and will be the ideal place for spectators to greet the new Champion Golfer of the Year.”

More than 21,000 grandstand seats will be available across the entire course, giving spectators plenty of options to enjoy excellent views of the links such as at the ‘loop’ where the seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, 11th and 12th holes can all be viewed.

The new grandstand seating plan for St Andrews follows the success of the horseshoe grandstand which covered three sides of the 18th green at the Open at Royal Liverpool last year and proved hugely popular with spectators.