Michael Brennan was disqualified by the PGA Tour at the Farmers Insurance Open due to a controversial rule after round one.
Disqualification After Round One at the PGA Tour
In a stunning development at the Farmers Insurance Open, Michael Brennan was removed from the tournament after the first round. The PGA Tour confirmed a violation of the so-called Model Rule G-11. Brennan used unauthorized materials to analyze the greens, which the Tour views as a clear breach of rules.
At the time of disqualification, the 2025 Bank of Utah Championship winner was tied for 55th place at two under par.
What Model Rule G-11 Allows and Forbids
Effective since January 2022, this rule significantly restricts the use of analytical aids. Only PGA Tour-approved yardage books, official flag position information, and a course overview in a maximum DIN A4 size are permitted.
Handwritten notes may only be made by the player or their caddie and must be based on personal observations, including rolled or played ball impressions and subjective green-reading impressions. Precise measurements or third-party created green analyses are expressly forbidden.
The regulations initially impose a two-stroke penalty for a violation, with a subsequent offense resulting in disqualification. The PGA Tour has not disclosed when Brennan’s infractions occurred.
A Controversial Rule Sparking Debate
The Model Rule G-11 has been controversial since its introduction. In 2022, Rory McIlroy, then President of the Players Council, defended the rule vigorously, stating many players had grown reliant on aids to read greens. “It’s not a huge advantage,” McIlroy said, “but it removes a skill that takes time and practice. Green reading is an art, and these aids negate individual strengths and advantages.”
German player Alex Cejka was also disqualified in 2022 for violating this rule with an unauthorized yardage book.
Hole locations for the third round of the Farmers Insurance Open pic.twitter.com/P4L6jEz39B
— PGA TOUR Communications (@PGATOURComms) January 31, 2026