Silvis, Illinois, United States: John Deere has signed a multi-year extension of its title sponsorship of the PGA Tour’s John Deere Classic which has been held at TPC Deere Run for 22 consecutive years.

John Deere is one of the PGA Tour’s longest running title sponsors, with its support of the event dating back to 1998. The 2023 tournament was held this month.

“We would like to express our gratitude to John Deere for its continued support of the PGA Tour and the John Deere Classic,” said PGA Tour Commissioner Jay Monahan.

“The John Deere Classic is a signature example of one of the PGA Tour’s most engaged communities coming together to achieve great things. As title sponsor, John Deere has gone above and beyond to help create an outstanding experience for our players and golf fans, while making a lasting impact with local non-profits,” added Monahan.

Since the tournament’s inception in 1971, the John Deere Classic has helped raise US$159 million for charity, 98 per cent of which has been raised since John Deere assumed title sponsorship in 1998.

Last year, the John Deere Classic delivered a tournament record US$13.9 million to 481 organisations through its ‘Birdies for Charity’ programme.

“For our company, and for the hundreds of John Deere employees and retirees who volunteer their time to make this such a great event for the fans and the players, the John Deere Classic is much more than just another stop on the PGA Tour. It helps us connect with our global customers and make a positive contribution to the quality of life in our local community,” said John May, Chairman and CEO at John Deere, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.

“Our relationship with the PGA Tour has been extremely productive. We look forward to working together to elevate the experience and impact of the John Deere Classic for the players, fans and community members,” added May.

The John Deere Classic moved to TPC Deere Run in 2000 and features a roll call of winners that includes Steve Stricker (2009-2011), Jordan Spieth (2013, 2015) and Zach Johnson (2012).

The agreement includes sponsorship of the John Deere Classic and a continuance of John Deere’s Official Marketing Partner programme. Deere retains its designation as Official Golf Course Equipment Supplier of the PGA Tour, Official Golf Course Equipment Supplier of the TPC Network, Official Utility Vehicle of the PGA Tour, Official Mower of the PGA Tour, Official Tractor of the PGA Tour and Official Golf Course Equipment Leasing Company.

The John Deere Classic has earned multiple PGA Tour awards throughout its history, including PGA Tour Tournament of the Year in 2016. The annual stop has also been honoured multiple times for both Best Title Sponsor Integration and Most Engaged Community.