John Deere Classic Organizers Stop Rumors Claiming Tournament Could Move to Chicago

Rumors about the future of the John Deere Classic are making headlines, but tournament officials say there's no truth behind them.

A recent report from Golfweek claimed the PGA Tour had asked John Deere about moving the tournament from the Quad Cities to Chicago. However, John Deere Classic Tournament Director Andrew Lehman says that simply isn't happening.

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Is the John Deere Classic Really Leaving the Quad Cities?

According to Lehman, there is no indication that the tournament is going anywhere.

"I can't see a scenario or world where the John Deere Classic is being played outside of the Quad Cities area," Lehman said.

The John Deere Classic is one of the biggest events in the region, generating more than $70 million in economic impact each year. John Deere has served as the tournament's title sponsor since 1998, and the event has been held at TPC Deere Run since 2000.

Where Did the Rumor Come From?

Golfweek reported that several sources told the publication the PGA Tour had asked John Deere to consider relocating the tournament to Chicago.

Lehman says the article was based on unnamed sources and lacked input from the two groups most directly involved.

"I said, look, I'm not in the business of telling you how to do your job. Clearly you had sources that were telling you this information, but you're missing a couple key components with a response or statement from John Deere and also a statement from the tournament office. We didn't get a chance to provide that prior to the article," Lehman said.

John Deere also addressed the report in a statement provided to Our Quad Cities News.

"We have not had any formal conversations with the PGA Tour regarding the future of the John Deere Classic, nor have they asked about our interest in relocating the event."

Why Is the Tournament So Important to the Quad Cities?

The John Deere Classic has been a staple of the Quad Cities since 1971 and has become much more than a golf tournament.

In a statement to Our Quad Cities News, Visit Quad Cities President and CEO Dave Herrell said:

"Since 1971, the John Deere Classic has invigorated our resident pride, driven a huge economic impact, boosted tourism, supported hundreds of charities and their mission-critical work every year, and elevated our brand identity and story onto a global stage reaching billions."

Lehman says the tournament's connection to the community runs deep.

"There's so many things that tie this tournament to this community – the longevity, you know, 54 plus years being played here in the Quad Cities. This property right here, John Deere donated the land for this," he said.

With the first week of July approaching, Lehman says he's happy to put what he calls a "small distraction" behind him and focus on welcoming golfers and fans back to the Quad Cities for another year of the John Deere Classic.