Pavon’s 2026 exemption category

Matthieu Pavon secured a spot on the DP World Tour in 2026 by virtue of his ranking on the PGA Tour in 2025. He fell into category 12, also known as the PGA category, which was reserved for players who finished between 101st and 200th in the final FedExCup 2025 ranking.

Restrictions on category 12 in 2026

Despite his exemption, Pavon’s access to DP World Tour events was limited. The rules restricted the number of players who could enter a tournament through category 12 to a maximum of five, meaning he could not automatically qualify for all events.

Changes to category 12 for 2027

The DP World Tour has revised the criteria for category 12 for 2027. The number of available spots has been reduced by 25, and Pavon must now finish within the top 175 of the FedExCup 2026 to maintain his exemption. He is currently ranked 132nd in the FedEx Cup Fall 2026, which places him within the eligible range.

New category 19 for 2027

In addition to category 12, the 2027 regulation introduces category 19, which allows certain PGA Tour players to participate in DP World Tour events. This category is open to players who finished beyond 100th in the FedExCup 2026, provided they were ranked members of the DP World Tour in 2026 and met the minimum tournament participation requirement.

Pavon’s focus on the PGA Tour

Pavon has stated that his long-term goal is to compete on the PGA Tour. A strong performance in the final November events of the FedExCup Fall could secure him a full or partial playing right for 2027. These events include the World Wide Technology Championship, Austin Championship, and RSM Classic.

Qualifying event for PGA Tour cards

Forty spots are available for players who finished beyond 100th in the final FedExCup Fall 2026 ranking. The decisive event to determine these spots will be held from 10 to 13 December 2026 in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. The top five finishers will earn their PGA Tour cards for the 2027 season, with a hole-by-hole playoff if needed to break ties.