Scottsdale, Arizona, February 2, 2026
The Thunderbirds have announced major upgrades for the WM Phoenix Open, including a complete redesign of the iconic 16th hole known as ‘The Coliseum.’ Enhancements will improve visibility, space, and overall fan experience. The tournament will take place from February 2–8, featuring a new main entrance, wider pathways, and digital tickets. Notable changes also include the introduction of a VIP ‘Pin-Hi Club’ and free admission on select days for children and military members.
Scottsdale, Arizona –
Thunderbirds Unveil Major Enhancements for 2026 WM Phoenix Open, Featuring Revamped 16th Hole “Coliseum”
The sponsoring Thunderbirds have announced significant transformations for the 2026 WM Phoenix Open in Scottsdale, Arizona, with a complete redesign of the iconic 16th hole, famously known as “The Coliseum.” These upgrades, aiming to enhance visibility, increase space, and elevate the overall fan experience, are set to welcome attendees from February 2–8, 2026. Beyond the 16th hole, additional operational improvements include a new main entrance and wider pathways across the course.
Reimagined 16th Hole Experience
The legendary 16th hole has been entirely rebuilt with a brand-new hospitality structure for the 2026 tournament. This new “Coliseum” design features wider interior bays, higher ceilings, and frameless glass railings on every level, ensuring unobstructed views for spectators. The structure has expanded to four stories high, an increase from its previous three levels. A new “Pin-Hi Club” is introduced on the fourth story, offering daily tickets for access to a lounge situated at the same level as the putting surface, complete with top-tier food and beverage options. For the first time, individual hospitality tickets for the 16th hole are available. The construction of this state-of-the-art, 100% reusable modular structure began on September 15, 2025, also reflecting a commitment to sustainability by reducing waste.
Operational and Access Enhancements
To streamline event logistics and improve fan access, the Thunderbirds have implemented several other key changes. A new main entrance has been added on Hayden Road, north of Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard, specifically designed to enhance crowd flow, particularly during peak attendance days. The course also features wider pathways and a new family center. Regarding ticketing, all tickets for the 2026 WM Phoenix Open are digital and require specific-day purchases, with no “good any day” tickets available. Tickets are exclusively sold online. Furthermore, admission is free on Monday, February 2, and Tuesday, February 3, known as Ford Free Days. Children aged 15 and under, U.S. military members, and active first responders are also granted complimentary admission.
Tournament Schedule and Participants
The 2026 WM Phoenix Open officially runs from Monday, February 2, to Sunday, February 8. The “Concert in the Coliseum,” a major entertainment component, is scheduled for Saturday, January 31. Recent player commitments for the tournament, announced on February 1, 2026, include Harris English, Sepp Straka, Chris Gotterup, Cameron Young, Maverick McNealy, and Daniel Berger. Additionally, MLB All-Stars and entertainment personalities are slated to participate in the Annexus Pro-Am on Wednesday, February 4.
Event History and Charitable Focus
The WM Phoenix Open, recognized five times as the PGA TOUR’s Tournament of the Year, is renowned for its unique blend of golf and entertainment. The tournament has long featured the “Concert in the Coliseum,” transforming the 16th hole into a vibrant concert venue with past headliners such as Maroon 5 and The Killers. The Thunderbirds, founded in 1937 to promote the Valley of the Sun through sports, have organized the event, which under title sponsor WM for 17 years, has become a leader in charitable giving and sustainability, achieving certified zero-waste status for 13 consecutive years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the primary changes announced for the 2026 WM Phoenix Open?
A: The primary changes for the 2026 WM Phoenix Open include a complete redesign of the iconic 16th hole, a new main entrance, wider pathways across the course, and updated ticket policies.
Q: What are the key features of the redesigned 16th hole?
A: The redesigned 16th hole features wider interior bays, higher ceilings, frameless glass railings for unobstructed views, and has expanded to four stories high. It also includes a new “Pin-Hi Club” offering daily tickets for access to a lounge at the putting surface level.
Q: What are the dates for the 2026 WM Phoenix Open?
A: The 2026 WM Phoenix Open is scheduled from February 2–8, 2026.
Q: Are there any free admission days for the tournament?
A: Yes, admission is free on Monday, February 2, and Tuesday, February 3, known as Ford Free Days. Children aged 15 and under, U.S. military members, and active first responders also receive complimentary admission.
Q: What is the “Concert in the Coliseum”?
A: The “Concert in the Coliseum” is a major entertainment component of the WM Phoenix Open, transforming the 16th hole into a concert venue. For 2026, it is scheduled for Saturday, January 31.
Key Features of 2026 WM Phoenix Open Enhancements
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 16th Hole Redesign (“The Coliseum”) | Completely rebuilt structure with wider interior bays, higher ceilings, frameless glass railings for unobstructed views, and expanded to four stories high. It also includes the new “Pin-Hi Club” for daily ticket holders. The structure is 100% reusable. |
| New Main Entrance | Located on Hayden Road, designed to improve attendee flow and reduce wait times, especially on high-attendance days. |
| Wider Pathways & Family Center | Enhanced accessibility with wider pathways across the course and the addition of a new family center. |
| Updated Ticket Policies | All tickets are digital, and specific-day tickets are required. No “good any day” tickets are available, and tickets are sold exclusively online. |
| Ford Free Days | Complimentary admission on Monday, February 2, and Tuesday, February 3. Free entry for children 15 and under, U.S. military, and active first responders. |
| “Concert in the Coliseum” | Continues the tradition of transforming the 16th hole into a major concert venue; scheduled for Saturday, January 31, for the 2026 event. |
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