After a rules violation at a HotelPlanner Tour event, Cedric Gugler faces a ten-event suspension and now speaks out on the incident.
Swiss golfer Cedric Gugler made headlines last year with a fourth-place finish at his home event, the Omega European Masters in Crans Montana. Currently in his third year as a professional, Gugler competes on the Challenge Tour and is working toward a five-year plan to reach the DP World Tour. However, his journey has hit a setback following a ten-event suspension due to an incident during the Kaskada Challenge in June. The penalty was issued for a ‘serious breach of the Tour’s code of conduct,’ reportedly involving multiple instances of playing his ball from an incorrect position on the green.
Cedric Gugler addresses HotelPlanner Tour suspension
Following a statement from the European Tour, Gugler took to Instagram to share his side of the story. Rather than contesting the alleged infraction, he acknowledged that his biggest mistake may have been a poorly worded admission during the hearing, where he conceded it was possible he had replaced his ball incorrectly. He has accepted the penalty.
Here is the statement Gugler posted on his Instagram Story:
‘Dear friends, as some of you may have already heard, I have been suspended by the European Tour for the first ten events of the upcoming HotelPlanner Tour season. As an athlete who has played golf since the age of six, and for whom fairness, respect, and sportsmanship have always been top priorities, this is a very difficult moment. I am accused of not correctly marking or replacing my ball on the green during the first round of the Kaskáda Golf Challenge. My playing partners reported this to the tournament officials after the round.’
‘My mistake was that during the initial hearing in the tournament office that same evening, I carelessly admitted that it might have been possible—due to simple inattention—that the ball was not replaced exactly in the same spot.’
‘It was never my intention to gain an advantage. Unfortunately, this vague statement triggered a long and difficult process that has now led to this decision. I deeply regret this mishap.’
‘I will use this as motivation to be even more careful in the future—especially when marking and replacing my ball on the green. Thank you all for your support during this challenging time. Sincerely, Cedi’
What’s next for Cedric Gugler?
Despite the setback, Gugler remains focused on his long-term goals. The suspension may delay his progress, but his public response shows a commitment to learning from the experience and returning stronger. His fans and supporters will be watching closely as he prepares for his comeback later in the season.