Italian politicians hope to solve funding problem for 2022 Ryder Cup
Thursday 9 February 2017 14:39, UK
Italian politicians are hopeful of finding a quick solution to a funding problem which could put the country's hosting of the 2022 Ryder Cup in jeopardy.
Senate president Pietro Grasso removed an amendment to a bill which would have guaranteed funding of €97m (£82m) for the event, which is due to be staged at Marco Simone Golf and Country Club outside Rome.
In quotes published on the Senate's official website, senatoripd.it, culture and sport committee president Andrea Marcucci said: "The Ryder Cup is, and remains, a great opportunity for the country.
"It's incredible that we are talking about the party (Italian Democratic Party) applying political pressure when it comes to an issue that affects all of Italy.
"President Grasso's decision is a technical one, it is not about the content of the amendment. I hope the government can quickly find a solution that meets the requirements of the organisers.
"I want to remind everyone that this international competition brings with it considerable economic benefits and television rights.
"The amendment in question didn't call for further public spending."
A spokesperson for Ryder Cup Europe said: "We are in regular communication with the Italian Golf Federation as we have been since December 14, 2015, the day Italy was awarded the honour of hosting The 2022 Ryder Cup, and we continue to be so."
