European Tour confirms Scottish Open to stay in pre-Open slot

The European Tour has no plans to move the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open from its regular slot a week before The Open.

The Tour's chief executive Keith Pelley confirmed that the tournament, which this year returns to Castle Stuart, would not have a change in date in the near future.

The Scotsman reported on Wednesday that Irish Open organisers were looking to host their event closer to the second major championship of the year, which will this year be hosted by Royal Troon.

But Pelley said: "We are proud of our strong partnership with Aberdeen Asset Management and the Scottish Government and look forward to the Scottish Open continuing to be a firm fixture on the European Tour the week before The Open."

Rickie Fowler won last year's title at Gullane but he will not be defending his crown next month, citing a packed schedule for his decision.

The 2017 Scottish Open will be held for the first time at the Dundonald Links, just up the road from Royal Troon.