Darren Clarke has been confirmed as Europe's captain for the 2016 Ryder Cup.
The 46-year-old Irishman saw off competition from Miguel Angel Jimenez and Thomas Bjorn to lead the team at Hazeltine next year.
A five-man panel, including last year's winning captain Paul McGinley, Jose Maria Olazabal and Colin Montgomerie, made the decision to appoint Clarke on Wednesday.
Clarke has participated in five Ryder Cups as a player for Europe and has been part of the winning side on four occasions.
The 2011 Open champion also has a combined total of 17 titles on the PGA and European tours.
"I am naturally extremely proud to be selected as European Ryder Cup captain for 2016. The Ryder Cup has been a massive part of my life and my career, so to have the chance to lead Europe next year is a huge honour," Clarke told the tournament's official website.
"I am lucky to have played and worked under some fantastic captains in my seven Ryder Cups to date, and I look forward to the challenge of trying to follow in their footsteps and help Europe to a fourth consecutive Ryder Cup victory at Hazeltine next year."
Rory McIlroy claimed last month that his fellow countryman would be a "perfect fit" as captain.
Davis Love III is expected to be named the USA's captain for next year's tournament.
Jack Prescott
