As of 1 January 2026, an important change to the World Handicap System (WHS) will come into effect in Austria.
From this date, an adjustment to the WHS will apply to all golfers with a handicap above 26.4. The previous handicap limit for players exceeding this threshold will be completely removed.
On 31 December 2025, the ÖGV server will automatically recalculate all affected handicaps. Following this recalculation, the updated handicap will be reflected on each player’s record in the MyGolf section. Depending on the results played, the handicap may either increase or decrease. At the same time, the handicap will provide a more realistic reflection of playing ability, as it will be based solely on actual performance rather than being capped by a system limit. This change will give many players improved opportunities to achieve strong net results in tournaments.
Responsibility for handicap administration will continue to lie with the respective handicap-managing club, i.e. the home club. Every club should establish a Handicap Committee, if this has not already been done, by the time the change takes effect. As of 1 January 2026, this committee will be authorized to independently determine and, if necessary, adjust the handicaps of all club members—for example in cases of illness, age-related changes, or special circumstances. Submitting an application to the ÖGV will no longer be required; such matters can be handled directly with the club.
The scope for handicap adjustments is clearly defined: handicaps may be adjusted by a maximum of five strokes above and three strokes below the so-called LHI (Low Handicap Index). This ensures that all changes remain transparent and aligned with the principles of sporting fairness. Should any questions arise or special circumstances apply, members are asked to contact their home club or the responsible Handicap Committee directly.
Overall, the automatic recalculation of handicaps at the end of 2025, the removal of the previous 26.4 limit, and the more flexible club-based management from 2026 onwards will ensure that handicaps are represented more fairly, transparently, and individually—providing an even more accurate reflection of each player’s true playing level.
