Earlier, the European Tour was supposed to be joined by big names like Phil Mickelson and others, but now it seems that they will give a final thought to it, since an increase in the minimum number of events required for membership  from 11 to 12, was introduced. Further it was specified that at least two of these events would be held in continental Europe, a place where due to weekened fields, a lot of tournaments have suffered.

In just a month, the tour will head towards it launch of Race in Dubai. According to the rules of the Dubai World Championship, only those who fall in top 60 in the Order of Merit, can participate in the event. 

“The committee reviewed all aspects of the Tour and took into account the current economic situation. They felt this was a correct way to recognize the support of the founding body of the European Tour in Europe. They will continue to review the situation on an annual basis,” reported the Tour's chief executive George O'Grady, after yesterday's meeting of the players' committee at St Andrews.

It was further added by Thomas Bjorn, the committee chairman, “With a 13-month season coming up, it is reasonable to put the number up by one. It is not a big task to play 12 events, especially when a lot of those guys [who may want to join the Tour] play four majors and three world golf championship events anyway. It was just time to change.”

When he was inquired about whether a bigger minimum number was considered, he replied that 12 was always the preferred number.