Michael Brennan was disqualified from the Farmers Insurance Open by the PGA Tour due to a controversial rule after round one.
Disqualification After Round One on the PGA Tour
In a shocking development at the Farmers Insurance Open, Michael Brennan was disqualified after the first round. The PGA Tour confirmed a violation of the so-called Model Rule G-11, which involved using unauthorized material to analyze the greens. From the Tour’s perspective, this was a clear breach of the rules.
At the time of his disqualification, the 2025 Bank of Utah Championship winner was tied for 55th place, two strokes under par.
What Model Rule G-11 Allows and Prohibits
Effective since January 2022, this rule significantly restricts the use of analysis aids. Only PGA Tour-approved yardage books, official information on pin placements, and a course overview no larger than A4 size are permitted.
Handwritten notes can only be made by the player or their caddie, based solely on their own observations, such as watching rolled or played balls and subjective impressions of the putting green. Detailed measurements or analyses created by others are explicitly prohibited.
The rule initially penalizes violations with two penalty strokes; a subsequent violation results in disqualification. The PGA Tour has not yet disclosed when Brennan’s infractions occurred.
A Rule with Debate Potential
Since its introduction, Model Rule G-11 has sparked debate. In 2022, then-Player Advisory Council President Rory McIlroy spoke out defending the rule, stating many players had grown complacent with green reading. “It’s not a huge advantage,” McIlroy said, “but it takes away a skill that requires time and practice. Reading greens is an art, and these aids neutralize individual strengths and advantages.”
German player Alex Cejka was also disqualified under this rule in 2022 for using 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