Ryder Cup schedule change confirmed after latest Bethpage Black weather forecast

The PGA of America have rescheduled the Ryder Cup opening ceremony due to forecast inclement weather. Friday morning's pairings, however, will still be announced by captains Luke Donald and Keegan Bradley as planned on Thursday.

The opening ceremony is now due to happen a day earlier at 4 pm on Wednesday, following an hour-long pre-show. Organisers have confirmed that Ryder Cup+ ticket holders for Thursday will also be permitted to attend on Wednesday.

Rain, strong winds and thunderstorms are all forecast for Thursday at Bethpage Black. However, the latest forecast does improve on Friday and Saturday, with Thursday the worst day.

READ MORE: Tommy Fleetwood claims stepson's surgery gives him perspective over fan abuse

READ MORE: Premier League icon to drive Ryder Cup star's buggy in shock career switch

The PGA of America statement released Tuesday evening reads: "Due to the forecast of inclement weather on Thursday, September 25, the Ryder Cup Opening Ceremony has been moved to Wednesday, September 24. "The Opening Ceremony pre-show will begin at 3 pm, with the Opening Ceremony set for 4 pm.

"Ryder Cup+ ticket holders for Thursday will now be admitted both Wednesday and Thursday. U.S. Captain Keegan Bradley and European Captain Luke Donald will announce Friday morning's pairings as planned at 4 pm Thursday at a location to be determined."

An on-site meteorologist issued a weather forecast on Tuesday afternoon. "A lull in activity is anticipated from late morning through early afternoon on Wednesday," it forecasts, "before additional scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms redevelop after 2pm. Rain is forecast to increase in coverage overnight Wednesday into Thursday morning.

"Periods of rain are expected throughout Thursday, along with a threat for scattered embedded thunderstorms Thursday afternoon and Thursday night.

"These thunderstorms will be capable of producing wind gusts of 35-45 mph on Thursday afternoon and overnight.

"Rain will persist into Friday morning, with isolated thunderstorms possible. Instability should weaken by midday Friday, with showers also diminishing in coverage. Conditions improve this weekend, with limited chances for showers."

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.