TEAM EUROPE HAS tweaked its selection process for the next Ryder Cup. The new process will be in place ahead of the 2016 tournament, which will be hosted by the US in Minnesota.

This means the previous structure, which saw Europe’s leader chosen by a committee headed by chairman Thomas Bjorn, has been scrapped, although the decision to change was taken by the panel itself.

The new five-man group will include the three most recent Ryder Cup captains – 2014 skipper Paul McGinley, José Maria Olazábal and Colin Montgomerie – with the next leader to be named in early 2015.

Richard Hills, European Ryder Cup director, commented: “The job of Ryder Cup captain is an ever expanding and ever demanding role, and I think this decision perfectly focuses the three vital ingredients required in any selection process. These are:

The immediate experience of the three past captains which brings six years of vital knowledge to the table; the office of the chief executive of The European Tour, which outlines the wide-ranging political and practical requirements; and the Tournament Committee representative who will, having canvassed his colleagues on Tour, bring the feelings and wishes of the players to the discussion.”

The Professional Golfers’ Association also backed the reform, with chief executive Sandy Jones optimistic it will help Europe’s future performance in the tournament.

“The Ryder Cup continues to grow and evolve, and we hope this new process will enable the European Team to continue the success they have enjoyed in recent years,” he said.

Diary of a Fantasy Gaffer: Budget schmudget, you’ve got to go with RVP

Rio 2016: RTÉ secure ‘extensive’ Olympic broadcast rights