American Express has announced that it is adding St Andrews Links to its sports partnership portfolio, with the credit card company becoming the Official Payments Partner of one of the world’s most prestigious golf destinations.
As part of the partnership, eligible consumer, business and corporate American Express Platinum Card and Centurion Members in select countries (including the UK) will have access to an exclusive application process, administered by St Andrews Links Trust, for a chance to enter a random ballot to purchase a golf package for themselves and one guest at select St Andrews Links courses in 2027. This will include the chance to play on the iconic Old Course.
“Golf and premium travel continue to be passions of our Card Members globally, and there are few places in the world more legendary than St Andrews,” said Shiz Suzuki, Vice President, Global Brand Sponsorships & Experiential Marketing, American Express. “We’re proud of this first-of-its-kind partnership with St Andrews Links Trust to provide the meaningful access American Express is known for, and to create new ways for eligible Platinum Card and Centurion Members to not only experience this historic destination, but also to play at the Home of Golf.”
James Ralley, Commercial Director, St Andrews Links Trust, added: “St Andrews Links has welcomed golfers from around the world for generations, and we are continually looking for ways to enhance the visitor experience and connect with new audiences internationally. This partnership will open up a new channel to help us raise awareness of our brand and existing visitor golf opportunities across a broader international audience while preserving the traditions and accessibility that make St Andrews so special. We are delighted to work with American Express on this unique partnership that will help introduce more golfers to St Andrews Links and support more investment into the Home of Golf.”
The Amex-exclusive application process will open at 10am on August 26 for eligible Centurion Members and on September 2 at 10am BST for eligible Platinum Card Members, in select countries. It will conclude at 11.59pm BST on September 9, prior to the upcoming 2026 Swilcan Package – St Andrews’ annual application process to access advanced tee times, which remains open to all.
Eligible card members who apply during an Amex-exclusive window will be selected by St Andrews Links Trust using the same random draw mechanism as the St Andrews Swilcan Package. Selected card members will then have approximately seven days after notification to purchase the golf package offered by St Andrews Links Trust.
The card members who are selected during the Amex exclusive application window and subsequently purchase a golf package will also receive various perks, including complimentary pull trolleys for all courses and a customised photography gift commemorating their round on the Old Course. Golf handicap restrictions and terms apply.
The number of tee times available for St Andrews local golfers and all other traditional access routes are not impacted by this partnership, while St Andrews Links will also continue to offer its affordable golf initiatives.