Core Points - The Sentry Tournament of Champions for 2026 has been cancelled due to severe damage to the Plantation Course at Kapalua caused by drought conditions [3][4] - The Sony Open will now serve as the season-opening event for 2026, scheduled for January 12-18 [3] - The PGA Tour had been exploring options to hold the tournament at an alternate site but faced logistical challenges [4][5] PGA Tour and Sentry Partnership - The PGA Tour expressed appreciation for the collaboration with Sentry Insurance despite the cancellation of the event [5] - Sentry Insurance remains committed to its long-term partnership with the PGA Tour, which extends through 2035 [7] - The PGA Tour aims to reinstate the Sentry Tournament of Champions in the future, highlighting its significance in the tour schedule [6][7] Historical Context - The Sentry Tournament of Champions has traditionally opened the PGA Tour season, having been the inaugural event from 1986-2013 and again starting in 2024 [5] - The field for the tournament was expected to include the top 50 players from the FedExCup standings and winners of PGA Tour events in 2025 [5]