John Deere Named as SC26 Official Machinery Partner

John Deere has been confirmed as the official golf course and turf maintenance machinery partner of the 2026 Solheim Cup, bringing their considerable experience in world-class course preparation and adding to the event’s sustainability credentials.

The agreement places John Deere at the heart of one of the biggest events in women’s sport. It formalises a partnership that brings together the global machinery manufacturer, Dutch dealer Kraakman, and the team at host venue Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands.

Paul Trowman, John Deere’s Golf and Turf Business Manager, said the partnership reflects the company’s long-term commitment to the professional game. “This is a chance to demonstrate how advanced machinery, data-driven management and high service standards can support top-level sport,” he said. “Bernardus Golf is an elite course which is presented by a team that’s at the top of its game. With John Deere machinery at its core, its greenkeepers have the tools and the expertise to ensure a global audience sees the venue in the best possible condition.”

Bernardus Golf’s local John Deere dealer, Kraakman, will supply all the equipment as well as delivering on-the-ground technical expertise before and throughout the event. The dealership is already working closely with the host venue to ensure all the right machinery is on site and has committed to a full training and monitoring programme for staff working at the venue.

Wim van Remortele, Commercial Manager for Golf and Turf at Kraakman, said: “Tournament preparation takes months of thought, planning, and expertise to ensure the course is playing to required regulations and looking its absolute best for a world-wide audience. Our role is to optimise the quality, efficiency and accuracy of operations, and we will be there before, during, and after the event because we have a long-term partnership with Bernardus Golf. The Solheim Cup is the pinnacle of Women’s golf so every machine, technician and process will be in peak condition.”

This year’s 20th edition of the biennial Solheim Cup has the ambition to set a new benchmark for eco-friendly sport events. Sustainability plans include replacing general on-site parking with low-emission travel options, integrated ticketing, and last-mile solutions. Other initiatives include renewable energy use, waste reduction, circular material sourcing, local catering, water-smart operations, and active nature restoration.

Bernardus Superintendent Niall Richardson said: “I rely on equipment that performs every single day. With the Solheim Cup ahead, partnering with John Deere gives our team the reliability and support we need to prepare the course to championship level. The electric and hybrid technologies, along with the data they provide, help us work more efficiently and sustainably.”

The Solheim Cup takes place at Bernardus Golf Course, the Netherlands, from 7th-13th September 2026.