August 8, 2026 – Sotogrande is celebrating the selection of Global Ambassador Mimi Rhodes to represent Team Europe at the 2026 Solheim Cup, a landmark achievement for a player whose connection to the destination stretches back to her childhood.

Rhodes will compete under the European flag as an English professional, but her story is also deeply rooted in Spain. Having grown up in the Sotogrande area, she spent some of the most formative years of her life living, practising and developing her game in the destination. For the local community, her selection is therefore a source of particular pride: a home-grown Sotogrande success story stepping onto one of the biggest stages in women’s golf.

The 2026 Solheim Cup will be played at Bernardus Golf in the Netherlands from 11-13 September, bringing together 12 of Europe’s leading players to face the United States in the 20th edition of the biennial team contest.

Rhodes’ selection adds another milestone to a remarkable rise in the professional game and carries special significance for a player who has frequently described Sotogrande as home. Since becoming a Global Ambassador in 2025, she has represented the destination on tour while using The Alto Club Sotogrande, The Alto Club Golf Academy and SO/ Sotogrande Spa & Wellness Club as a base for training and recovery between tournaments.

Rita Jordao, Director of Marketing at Sotogrande S.A., said: “Everyone in Sotogrande is incredibly proud of Mimi. Although she represents England, she grew up in Spain, developed so much of her game here and remains a genuine part of this community. To see her selected for Team Europe is a very special moment for the destination and for everyone who has followed her journey.”

“Mimi’s achievement also shows young players across Spain what can be possible when talent is supported by the right environment, facilities and community. We look forward to cheering her on in September and welcoming her home to Sotogrande.”

Mimi Rhodes said: “Being selected for Team Europe is a dream come true and one of the proudest moments of my career. The Solheim Cup is an event every European player wants to be part of, and I cannot wait to represent the team.

“Sotogrande has played such an important role in my life and my golf game. I grew up here, spent countless hours practising here and still return to prepare and recharge whenever I can. Knowing that the community in Sotogrande and Spain will be supporting me makes this moment even more meaningful.”

Rhodes’ selection further strengthens Sotogrande’s connection to the highest levels of the women’s game. She is joined among the destination’s Global Ambassadors by Spanish LPGA Tour player Carla Tejedo, while two-time major champion and former Solheim Cup captain Suzann Pettersen serves as Global Ambassador for The Alto Club Golf Academy.

Together, Rhodes, Tejedo and Pettersen reflect Sotogrande’s commitment to women’s golf from elite performance through to the next generation. The Alto Club Golf Academy supports that ambition with expert coaching programmes, a Toptracer-equipped floodlit practice range, dedicated short-game areas and a new nine-hole par-3 course designed by Ryder Cup legend Manuel Piñero.

The partnership reinforces Sotogrande’s position as one of Europe’s leading golf destinations, combining championship courses, year-round playing conditions and high-performance facilities with a community that has helped golfers such as Rhodes feel at home and fulfil their potential.