Molinari pumped for Mexico challenge - (2026)

Race to Dubai champion Francesco Molinari (50/1 – WGC-Mexico Championship Outright) says he is looking forward getting his season properly underway at this week’s WGC-Mexico Championship.

Molinari enjoyed a sensational 2018, winning his maiden major championship at the Open, helping Europe reclaim the Ryder Cup from the USA after winning all five of his matches and also landing the Race to Dubai crown.

Understandably, the 36-year-old has been taking some time away from the game to recharge the batteries and he has only played in one tournament since last November’s DP World Tour Championship in Dubai.

The Italian maestro finished tied-27th at the Sentry Tournament of Champions in his only start of 2019, but he will be present in Mexico this week and is eager to put together a strong challenge for glory.

“I’m feeling great,” Molinari told europeantour.com. “Obviously it’s different to show up as the Race to Dubai champion. I’ll try to put up a good defence of that title and I’m looking forward to the season.

“I know it’s not going to be easy to repeat but it’s a long season and I’m glad to finally get started and hopefully get off to a strong start here in Mexico.”

Molinari, who is Betfred’s 50/1 to be the first-round leader, has been paired alongside fellow Ryder Cup team-mate Thorbjorn Olesen (100/1 WGC-Mexico Championship Outright) and American Xander Schauffele (20/1 WGC-Mexico Championship Outright) for the first two days.

Defending champion Phil Mickelson is 28/1 to retain his crown at Club de Golf Chapultepec, while compatriot Justin Thomas, who let a four-shot lead slip at the Genesis Open last week to end up second, is the 10/1 favourite after losing out in a play-off 12 months ago.

Odds subject to change.