2012 European Tour Schedule announced

The European Tour International Schedule for 2012 has been confirmed by The European Tour.

Starting with the Africa Open at the East London Golf Club on January 5 and finishing with the DP World Tour Championship, Dubai at the Jumeirah Golf Estates on November 25, the International Schedule celebrates the diversity and shared passion for golf across the globe.

One of the major highlights of the European Tour will be the flagship event, the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth in May.

Last year Luke Donald pipped Lee Westwood to the title in a play-off, which helped him to seal the Race to Dubai crown.

Another event which will attract worldwide interest will be the Johnnie Walker Championship at Gleneagles in August.

It will mark the final qualifying event for the 2012 Ryder Cup at Medinah so there is sure to be high drama as European Tour players fight it out for the final spots on the team.

Keith Waters, chief operating officer and director of international policy for The European Tour, said: "We are delighted today to announce our 2012 schedule which once again is strong and vibrant and one which will allow our Members to exhibit their undoubted talents in a variety of venues around the world.

"The success of our Members globally has clearly contributed to the continuing development of The European Tour International Schedule but we are further inspired by the superb support of our many players and sponsors, across many geographically and culturally diverse regions, all of whom deserve our sincere thanks for their support in these economically challenging times.

"Our most recent sponsorship announcement, which has seen The Race to Dubai extended through to the end of 2014 - with the end of season tournament being retile the DP World Tour Championship, Dubai - is particularly significant, in DP World and Nakheel we have two incredibly strong partners who will help to provide a truly fitting end to what already looks like being another exciting season."