Why PGA Tours FedEx Changes Threaten 2026 Tour Cards

The PGA Tour has implemented changes to its FedExCup Fall schedule that will impact how players qualify for Tour cards in 2026. These adjustments alter the structure of the season and the pathways for professional golfers to secure their playing privileges for the following year.

Main News

The PGA Tour has reduced the field size for the FedExCup Playoffs. Starting from the 2026 season, only the top 70 players in the FedExCup standings will qualify for the first playoff event.

This change eliminates the previous system where 125 players qualified. The FedExCup Fall series will now follow the Playoffs and involve players ranked 71st and below.

The primary function of the FedExCup Fall will be to determine the final qualifying spots for the next season’s Tour cards. Performance in these events will finalize the top 125 players who earn full PGA Tour membership for the following year.

Two new categories, the “Next 10” and the “Swing 5,” have also been introduced. The Next 10 will be the top 10 players from the FedExCup Fall who are not already exempt, granting them entry into the following year’s signature events.

Summary

The PGA Tour’s FedExCup structure has been modified, with the Playoffs now limited to the top 70 players in the standings. This is a significant reduction from the previous field of 125 competitors.

A new phase, the FedExCup Fall, will occur after the Playoffs conclude. This series will determine which players outside the top 70 secure their Tour cards for the next season.

The final spots in the top 125, which grant full playing privileges, will be decided during these fall events. Additionally, new exemption categories have been created for the Tour’s signature events.

These categories, the Next 10 and Swing 5, provide pathways for players to qualify for elite tournaments based on their FedExCup Fall performance.

FAQs

**How many players now make the FedExCup Playoffs?**
The FedExCup Playoffs field has been reduced to 70 players. This is a change from the previous format that included 125 golfers.

What is the purpose of the FedExCup Fall?
The FedExCup Fall determines the final players who earn PGA Tour cards for the next season. It finalizes the top 125 in FedExCup points and establishes the Next 10 and Swing 5 categories for signature event qualifications.

What are the “Next 10” and “Swing 5”?
The Next 10 are the top 10 players from the FedExCup Fall, not otherwise exempt, who earn spots in signature events. The Swing 5 are the top five FedExCup point earners from non-signature events who are also not already exempt.

Disclaimer: This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. All information is based on verified reporting available at the time of publication.