2026 Zurich Classic of New Orleans: Format & How to Watch

Cameron Kelly Updated: Apr 30 2026 17:44

The Zurich Classic of New Orleans returns this week with a unique twist that separates it from every other stop on the PGA Tour calendar.

It is the Tour's only official team event, the Zurich Classic brings pairs of golfers together to compete in alternate shot and best ball formats, creating a dynamic that blends strategy, chemistry, and shot making under pressure.

The tournament is held at TPC Louisiana and features a mix of established stars and rising talent teaming up to win. With FedExCup points, a two-year Tour exemption, and bragging rights on the line, the Zurich Classic offers a refreshing change of pace to the Tour's schedule.

Zurich Classic Format

Unlike traditional PGA Tour events, the Zurich Classic gives players the opportunity to play in team pairings. The first and third rounds will be Four-ball play, and the second and final rounds will be Foursomes.

Four-Ball Play:

Four-ball play is when layers on each team will play their own ball throughout the entire round, whichever teammate with the best score on the hole is recorded.

Foursomes Play:

Foursomes play is when players rotate tee shots and then alternate shots until the ball is in the hole. One player will hit the tee shots on all the odd-numbered holes, and the other will hit on the even-numbered holes. The hole is scored by the total number of strokes the team has on each hole.

Field:

The field includes 74 teams (148 players). Each of the top available players from the PGA Tour Priority Rankings who commits to the tournament will choose their partner, who must have PGA Tour status unless he is chosen as an exemption.

Cut Line:

Once the second round concludes, there will be a cut to the low 33 teams and ties at the 33rd position.

How to watch the Zurich Classic

Thursday, April 23 - Friday, April 24: 3-6 pm, Golf Channel
Saturday, April 25- Sunday, April 26: 1-3 pm, Golf Channel; 3-6 pm, CBS, Paramount+

PGA Tour Live on ESPN+