Why is Thai lager called the “official beer” of the British Open? We wondered the same thing

HOYLAKE (England) — A Singha beer is the perfect way to celebrate the British Open.

A spokesperson for R&A confirmed that the Thai beermaker signed a contract to become an official supplier and “Official Beverage of The Open” in this year. The deal will run through 2025. The terms of the agreement were not revealed.

It caused several spectators to wonder what the hell is going on? It seems strange that “the original Thai Beer” is the beer being sold for a tournament in England this year, Scotland next year, and Northern Ireland in 2025 (hopefully, there will be room for Guinness). There is no need to worry: there’s a tie, or should we call it Thai? The United Kingdom is not far behind.

Singha, Britain’s oldest brewery, produces the beer in the UK. They also supply other brands of beer to the Championship for public bars and hospitality.

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The Open featured European beer in the past, with Stella Artois from Belgium as the official beer between 2014-18 and Dutch beer Heineken for 2019.

The 151 British Open is expected to attract more than 290,000. The Thai Lager that Shepherd and Neame started brewing for UK in 2022 will also be available to guests, along with Whitstable Bay Pale Ale and Orchard View Cider. The Singha brand is always visible in the concessions.

Jonathan Neame, chief executive of Shepherd Neame, told beer Today that “The Open” is a world renowned event. We are especially excited to feature Singha at this Championship. Singha has a history of supporting major sporting events across the UK and the world.

Neil Armit is the chief commercial officer of the R&A. He added: “We are looking forward to working together during the next three-years to offer our guests and fans a variety of high-quality British crafted products at Championship.”

It’s true, Singha — but don’t take a cold beer to the grandstand. (See photo below).