Shane Lowry and Nacho Elvira both produced brilliant rounds of 68 in windy conditions to share a two-shot lead at the 2026 Dubai Invitational.
A dart from Shane Lowry at the second hole to get off to a birdie-birdie start 🇮🇪#DubaiInvitational pic.twitter.com/sRNrbEXtnk
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 16, 2026
Irishman Lowry began the day three shots behind good friend and Grand Slam champion Rory McIlroy, but some stunning iron play and clutch putting saw him overhaul his playing partner.
"Great. That is SO good!"
Rory McIlroy with an amazing shot from the rocks at the 18th! 💯#DubaiInvitational pic.twitter.com/mSsxG5DSM5
— DP World Tour (@DPWorldTour) January 16, 2026
The Major champion is aiming to secure his first DP World Tour title since winning the 2022 BMW PGA Championship and he showcased his quality with five birdies and two bogeys to get to five under for his first two days’ work.
Spaniard Elvira surged into contention thanks to four birdies in his final six holes for a matching 68 – the best rounds of the day.
England’s Marcus Armitage and Spain’s David Puig were tied for third at three under, while McIlroy, Thriston Lawrence, Antoine Rozner and Angel Ayora were one shot further back at two under.
American Ryggs Johnston recorded the first hole-in-one of 2026 when his aced the 218-yard par-three eighth with a six iron.
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