Michael Brennan was disqualified by the PGA Tour at the Farmers Insurance Open due to a controversial rule violation after the first round.
Disqualification After First Round on the PGA Tour
Shock at the Farmers Insurance Open: Michael Brennan was disqualified after the first round. The PGA Tour confirmed a breach of the so-called Model Rule G-11, as Brennan used unauthorized materials to analyze the greens, which the Tour sees as a clear violation.
At the time of disqualification, the 2025 Bank of Utah Championship winner was tied for 55th place at two strokes under par.
What the Model Rule G-11 Allows and Prohibits
Effective since January 2022, this rule significantly limits the use of analysis aids. Only PGA Tour-approved yardage books, official information about pin positions, and a course overview no larger than A4 are permitted.
Handwritten notes may only be added by the player or their caddie based on personal observations, such as ball rolls or subjective putting green impressions. Detailed measurements or analyses made by third parties are strictly forbidden.
The rule initially penalizes violations with two penalty strokes; only a subsequent violation leads to disqualification. The PGA Tour has not disclosed when Brennan’s violations occurred.
A Rule Sparking Debate
The Model Rule G-11 has sparked discussions since its introduction. In 2022, Rory McIlroy, then president of the players council, defended it by saying many players have become too reliant on reading greens with aids. “It doesn’t give a huge advantage,” said McIlroy, “but it takes away a skill that requires time and practice. Reading greens is an art, and these aids negate individual strengths and advantages.”
German player Alex Cejka was also disqualified in 2022 for using a non-approved yardage book under this rule.
Hole locations for the third round of the Farmers Insurance Open pic.twitter.com/P4L6jEz39B
— PGA TOUR Communications (@PGATOURComms) January 31, 2026