Welcome to CaddyBytes' coverage of the Arnold Palmer Invitational, one of the PGA Tour's most prestigious and beloved events that honors the legacy of golf legend Arnold Palmer. Established in 1979 as the Bay Hill Classic, this signature event celebrates The King's enduring impact on the game while showcasing world-class competition at his beloved Bay Hill Club & Lodge.
The Arnold Palmer Invitational features an elite field of 120 players competing at the challenging Bay Hill course, where Palmer himself lived and hosted this event for decades. As one of the PGA Tour's signature events with a $20 million purse, it attracts the world's top golfers and offers one of the most coveted trophies in professional golf—the chance to don the iconic red cardigan sweater in honor of Arnold Palmer.
With a rich history spanning over four decades, the Arnold Palmer Invitational has crowned legendary champions including Tiger Woods (8-time winner), Ernie Els, Phil Mickelson, and more recently, Scottie Scheffler and Rory McIlroy. The tournament not only showcases elite competition but also continues Palmer's legacy of sportsmanship, generosity, and his profound love for the game of golf.
Arnold Palmer Invitational
2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational
Tournament Details
Date: March 6-9, 2026
Location: Bay Hill Club & Lodge, Orlando
Field: 120 PGA Tour professionals
PGA Tour Signature Event honoring Arnold Palmer.
Tournament DetailsArnold Palmer Invitational History (1979 - Present)
2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational
Upcoming Signature Event
Bay Hill Club & Lodge
Elite field of 120 players
$20 million signature event purse
700 FedExCup points to winner
2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational
Recent Champion
Bay Hill Club & Lodge
PGA Tour Signature Event
Part of Florida Swing
Iconic red cardigan awarded
2020s API Champions
Modern Era
Bay Hill Club & Lodge
Scottie Scheffler won in 2023
Rory McIlroy champion in 2018, 2021
Tyrell Hatton claimed 2020 victory
2010s API Champions
Memorable Victories
Bay Hill Club & Lodge
Francesco Molinari won in 2019
Rory McIlroy claimed 2018 title
Jason Day champion in 2016
2000s API Dominance
Tiger Woods Era
Bay Hill Club & Lodge
Tiger Woods won 8 times (2000-2013)
Ernie Els champion in 1998, 2010
Phil Mickelson won in 1997
Tournament Format
Signature Event
120 Elite Players
72-hole stroke play format
All players play all four rounds
700 FedExCup points to winner
Historic Venue
Bay Hill Club & Lodge
Arnold Palmer's Home Course
Host venue since tournament inception
Course Details:
Par 72, 7,466 yards
Arnold Palmer's Legacy
The King's Tournament
Honoring The King
Celebrates Palmer's legacy
Winner receives red cardigan
Continues Arnie's Army tradition
Historic Champions
Legendary Winners
Golf's Greatest
Tiger Woods: 8-time champion
Ernie Els: 2-time winner
Rory McIlroy: 2-time champion
The Arnold Palmer Invitational Legacy
The Arnold Palmer Invitational has established an unparalleled legacy as one of the PGA Tour's most prestigious and emotionally significant events since its inception in 1979. Originally founded as the Bay Hill Classic by Arnold Palmer himself, the tournament has evolved into a signature event that honors The King's enduring impact on golf while showcasing elite competition at his beloved Bay Hill Club & Lodge.
The tournament's unique position as one of the PGA Tour's signature events with a $20 million purse and 700 FedExCup points to the winner attracts the world's best players. More than just another tournament, the Arnold Palmer Invitational represents a living tribute to Palmer's legacy—from the iconic red cardigan awarded to the champion to the continued presence of Arnie's Army, maintaining the spirit that made Palmer golf's most beloved figure.
Beyond the competition, the Arnold Palmer Invitational continues Palmer's profound commitment to philanthropy and community. The tournament raises millions for the Arnold & Winnie Palmer Foundation, supporting children's health, wellness, and character development—causes dear to Palmer's heart. This charitable mission, combined with world-class golf, creates a powerful legacy that extends far beyond the fairways of Bay Hill.
As the tournament continues to thrive at Bay Hill Club & Lodge, it maintains its core identity as both a competitive showcase and a heartfelt celebration of Arnold Palmer's life and values. The event's unique combination of elite competition, emotional significance, and meaningful charitable impact has made the Arnold Palmer Invitational a cherished institution that perfectly captures golf's ability to honor its past while inspiring future generations.