Francesco Molinari parts with caddie Pello Iguaran, hires Mark Fulcher
After four successful seasons together, which included a victory in the 2018 Open Championship, Italian golfer Francesco Molinari has parted ways with caddie Pello Iguaran and has hired Justin Rose’s former longtime caddie, Mark Fulcher, to take over the bag in 2020.
Molinari made the announcement via his Twitter account on Thursday afternoon:
— Francesco Molinari (@F_Molinari) October 17, 2019
Here’s the text of Molinari’s statement:
It’s been nearly four seasons of incredible emotions and really productive work, but unfortunately relationships sometimes come to an end, even if it’s not what we wish for.
Pello will always be a member of my team and more importantly my family. He’s one of the most hardworking, loyal, positive, reflective people I’ve come across during my career.
We’ve had both good and tough times on the course, but most importantly we both grew together and as individuals during our time together.
Best of luck for the future and thanks for an amazing run together.
Jason Hempleman will be on the bag until the end of the season.
Mark Fulcher will be on the bag at the start of 2020.
Fulcher, known for his nickname, “Fooch,” spent 11 years on the bag of Rose, helping the Englishman to a major win (2013 U.S. Open) and Olympic gold at the 2016 Rio Games, while also reaching the No. 1 ranking in the world.
Early in 2019, Fulcher was sidelined indefinitely after undergoing a heart procedure.
He returned for the Masters in April, where Rose missed the cut.
In May, Rose announced that Fulcher had been, “medically advised that a further period of recuperation is required.”
From there, Gareth Lord (longtime caddie to Henrik Stenson) took over Rose’s bag — the pair had won at Torrey Pines in Fulcher’s absence in February.
Molinari’s last victory came in March at the Arnold Palmer Invitational.