LIV Golf has announced a significant agreement with a new lead investor, marking a new direction for the golf league. This deal would enable LIV Golf to operate without the financial backing of Saudi funding, which is scheduled to conclude after the 2026 season.
Scott O'Neil, LIV Golf's CEO, confirmed the agreement on Wednesday. A statement from LIV Golf indicated that the deal, signed by the investor and approved by the Board, will anchor the transaction and support the league's future, which is described as being "driven by and for the players."
The league also stated it is seeing interest from over a dozen additional parties for potential minority investments, aiming for a multi-partner model for long-term stability. Notably, the next chapter is planned to make LIV Golf players the majority equity holders, a first for a major global sports league. The goal is to finalise terms in the coming weeks, with a transaction anticipated in September.
LIV Golf launched in 2022 with substantial financial backing from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), which allowed it to attract top players with significant bonuses and prize funds. However, the PIF announced earlier this year that it would cease funding after the 2026 season, leading to the cancellation of one event in New Orleans.