Rory McIlroy will continue to host the Irish Open for the next three years on behalf of his foundation, with Dubai Duty Free also extending its sponsorship until 2018.

The prize fund for next year’s tournament, which will take place at The K Club over May 19th-22nd will increase by 60 per cent, rising from €2.5million to €4 million.

Four-time major winner McIlroy, who missed the cut at Royal County Down earlier this year, said: “The Irish Open has always meant so much to me, so I am really excited to announce my commitment to host the tournament, on behalf of the Rory Foundation, for the next three years.

"I would like to thank Colm McLoughlin of Dubai Duty Free and Keith Pelley of The European Tour for supporting my vision to develop the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open Hosted by the Rory Foundation into one of the leading events on The European Tour's schedule over the next three years.

“I was delighted with the support I received, not only from the players who competed this year, but also from the fans who came along to the Irish Open at Royal County Down in May — they made it another sell-out tournament.

“I am sure The K Club — on the 10th anniversary as host of the 2006 Ryder Cup - will be an excellent venue for the 2016 Irish Open.”