Clarke named Ryder Cup captain

Darren Clarke will captain Europe at the 2016 Ryder Cup at Hazeltine.

The Northern Irishman was the favourite to be elected ahead of Spain’s Migel Angel Jimenez and Thomas Bjorn of Denmark.

The five-man panel which made the decision included 2014 victorious captain Paul McGinley as well as former captains Colin Montgomerie and Jose Maria Olazabal.

Clarke has won the event as a player four times and was a vice-captain in the 2010 and 2012 events.

“I am naturally extremely proud to be selected as European Ryder Cup captain for 2016,” said the 43-year-old after the announcement.

“The Ryder Cup has been a massive part of my life and my career, so to have the chance to lead Europe next year is a huge honour.

“I am lucky to have played and worked under some fantastic captains in my seven Ryder Cups to date, and I look forward to the challenge of trying to follow in their footsteps and help Europe to a fourth consecutive Ryder Cup victory at Hazeltine next year.”

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