LIV Golf executives are set to inform players that Saudi Arabia's funding of the circuit will cease at the end of 2026, according to reports. The move marks a significant shift for the breakaway tour, which has relied on billions from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) since its launch in 2022.
The PIF, which has invested over $5bn (£3.7bn) into LIV, communicated the change in approach during meetings in New York after the Masters. The conflict in the Middle East has been cited as a factor, and Yasir al-Rumayyan, the PIF governor and key LIV backer, is no longer playing a central role in the tour's future. Saudi Arabia's crown prince has reportedly insisted on a strategic shift affecting LIV's reliance on PIF cash.
Without alternative funding from 2027, LIV's current model faces closure. Chief executive Scott O'Neil, who had hoped to retain PIF support, will hold meetings with players and staff on Thursday to outline the reversal. O'Neil is expected to seek new investors, but the outlook appears grim.
Top players like Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, and Cameron Smith, who signed lucrative LIV contracts, may seek to return to the PGA Tour. However, negotiations could be complicated, as the PGA Tour is in a strong position and must consider sanctions for returning players to appease loyal members.
Next week, LIV Golf Virginia is scheduled at Trump National Golf Club, while a planned stop in Louisiana in June has been postponed.
