Eugenio Chacarra not only secured victory in India, but he also sent a strong message towards the 2027 Ryder Cup. With his third DP World Tour title in 2026 – following the KLM Open and the Italian Open – the Spaniard impressively demonstrates that he is in top form and can challenge Europe's leading golfers.
At the weather-affected and turbulent DP World India Championship at the New Delhi Golf Club, Chacarra claimed triumph on Sunday. After 25 holes – including a bogey-free round of 63 in round three and a 70 in the final round – he confidently finished two strokes ahead of New Zealand's Daniel Hillier. With this success, he takes the lead in the Race to Dubai, surpassing Patrick Reed, just as the season-ending playoffs in the Middle East approach.
Ryder Cup in Sight
Chacarra's performance is no coincidence; it's a clear statement. In India, he left genuine heavyweights like Rory McIlroy, Tommy Fleetwood, Shane Lowry, and Robert MacIntyre behind. Captain Luke Donald already seems to have him on his radar: two months ago, he invited Chacarra and his countryman Ángel Ayora to visit the 2027 Ryder Cup venue in County Limerick. Chacarra himself aims to secure one of the six automatic qualification spots and not have to rely on a Captain's Pick.
Comeback with a Statement
Chacarra, who joined LIV Golf in 2022 and left the tour again in 2025, is a prime example of the current dynamics in golf. Patrick Reed, another ex-LIV player, also returned to the DP World Tour in January 2026. Chacarra's journey shows how players can reach new heights after detours. His run is remarkable and sends a clear signal to everyone considering squad selection for 2027.
The season is going well for Chacarra: next week, he plans to play in Korea to further extend his lead in the Race to Dubai. With three wins this season and victories over European stars, he is definitely a serious contender for the 2027 Ryder Cup. Even though a year will pass until automatic qualification, his current form speaks a clear language.
