Saudi Arabia is pulling the plug on its massive financial backing of LIV Golf after this season, throwing the future of the breakaway tour into serious doubt. The move, confirmed by multiple sources, marks a pivotal moment for the league that has shaken up the golf world since its launch.
LIV Golf is expected to announce a "new strategic plan" on Thursday, actively seeking fresh investors to replace the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) funding. Alongside this financial shift, new board members are set to be appointed as the tour looks to rebrand and restructure under new leadership. Reports indicate that PIF governor Yasir Al-Rumayyan, who co-founded LIV in 2021 and has been its most influential figure, may step down from the board.
The uncertainty comes as LIV Golf has already postponed its June event in New Orleans, leaving a gap of nearly three months without tournaments in the U.S. between May 10 and August 6, when the tour heads to Trump Bedminster in New Jersey. Despite these challenges, LIV remains committed to its international team model and is in "constructive" talks with potential investors.
Sources suggest executives are exploring ways to "reposition" the business, with projections showing LIV could earn $100 million more in 2026 than last season. However, officials acknowledge that the series will likely need to be scaled back significantly, with fewer events on the calendar. Team captains have been warned that Thursday's announcement will outline the search for new financial backers.
Earlier this month, LIV CEO Scott O'Neil reassured players that the 2026 season would go ahead "as planned and uninterrupted," though he did not address long-term concerns. This latest development aligns with PIF's new strategy focusing on more sustainable investments, signaling a shift away from the lavish spending that has defined LIV's rise.
Since its inception, LIV Golf has been bankrolled by staggering amounts from PIF—over $5 billion in total, including a fresh $267 million injection this year. The tour's net losses outside the U.S. ballooned to $462 million in 2024, highlighting the financial strain. As the golf world watches closely, the coming weeks will determine whether LIV can tee off a new chapter or if this marks the beginning of the end for the rebel league.