The foundations for the BMW Golf Cup International were laid in England in 1982: BMW organised the BMW Invitation Tournament for the first time. Amateurs were invited by various BMW dealers and played six regional tournaments, which were followed by the final at the famous Belfry golf course just outside Birmingham.

In 1992 the BMW Invitation Tournament was integrated in the BMW Golf Cup International. This had been founded five years earlier, but was only played in the home of BMW, Germany. Three years later the competition had flourished to such an extent that the World Final celebrated its premiere in Portugal.

Today, more than 25 years later, it is clear to see how this tournament series has developed. In Germany alone, approximately 15,000 golfers compete in the qualification tournaments for the World Final. Roughly 100,000 amateur golfers from about 50 countries compete around the world.

There are three categories: Men A (up to handicap 12), Men B (handicap 13 to 28) and Ladies (up to handicap 28). Qualification tournaments in the respective countries determine a winner in each category. The reward for the victorious trio is a trip to the World Final, which changes venue each year but is without exception played at some of the most beautiful golf courses in the world. Countries to have hosted the World Final include Portugal, Thailand, South Africa, Argentina and Australia.