Newz Forum: GOLF: Bernhard Langer quits as European Ryder Cup captain

Bernhard Langer has announced he does not want to continue as European Ryder Cup captain.

It leaves what looks like a straight fight for the job between Ian Woosnam and Nick Faldo, although Sandy Lyle and Jose Maria Olazabal have also declared interest. The decision is expected to be taken on March 1.

"I wish to end all speculation that I will serve a second term as captain," said Langer.

"I have officially informed the European Tour tournament committee through the chairman, Jamie Spence, that I have every intention of being a playing member of the 2006 European team."

Langer was in charge for the record-breaking 18 1/2-9 1/2 victory in Detroit in September and then took time to reflect on whether he was interested in being appointed again.

American captain Tom Lehman, another committed Christian, said openly that he was urging the 47-year-old German to stay on and Langer was bound to have support among European tour players.

But the double Masters champion has always felt it would be wrong to deny others the chance now that there are no shortage of candidates - and he wants to be free to devote more time to his own career.

The word on the grapevine is that Woosnam will be the preferred choice of the players' committee when they meet in Dubai and discuss the issue.

Sportinglife