LIV Golf secures lead investor, plans for next season amidst ongoing changes

By Liam Tremblay — 5 August 2026 — 4 min read

LIV Golf secures new investment for future seasons

LIV Golf has announced a significant agreement with a lead investor, a move intended to secure the league’s future without reliance on Saudi funding. This agreement, approved by LIV’s board, is described as paving the way for the league’s next phase, which will be driven by and for its players. The identity of the investor has not been disclosed, but LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil indicated that terms are expected to be finalized within the next few weeks, with a target completion in September.

The league, which launched in 2022 with financial backing from the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia (PIF), previously offered substantial bonuses to attract prominent players like Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, and Jon Rahm from the PGA Tour. These players were offered prize funds of $20 million. However, the financial landscape shifted earlier this year when the PIF indicated it would cease funding LIV Golf after the 2026 season.

Amidst these changes, O’Neil has been actively pursuing private investors for what is being referred to as “LIV Golf 2.0,” presenting a new, streamlined business model. He also noted strong interest from over a dozen other potential minority investors as the league seeks to ensure its survival and continued operation.

Player meetings address league’s future

The announcement of the new lead investor comes after a period of uncertainty for the league. Players convened for a players-only meeting at Trump National Bedminster, following an earlier session that included O’Neil, the executive suite, and team captains. Bryson DeChambeau led the discussions during the player-exclusive talks.

Following these meetings, players were largely reluctant to share details about the updates they received. Some, including Richard Bland, acknowledged DeChambeau’s role in the meeting but pointed to a lack of definitive information. Bland stated that DeChambeau shared what he knew and expressed that the next two to three weeks would be crucial for gaining a clearer picture. He also conveyed a positive outlook, emphasizing the need for everything to be fully signed off before moving forward.

The uncertainty among players also extended to the fate of the LIV Team Championship, which has a $40 million purse and was scheduled for August 27-30 at The Cardinal in Plymouth, Michigan. Sources familiar with discussions indicated that an official decision and announcement regarding this event would not be made this week. Reports from The Cardinal last week noted that infrastructure for the event, such as grandstands, had not yet begun construction, which is considered unusual for a golf tournament less than a month away.

Cameron Smith, when asked about the championship, mentioned that players had been told to prepare as if it were proceeding. He expressed hope for a return to Michigan, referencing a positive experience there the previous year. Lee Westwood and Byeong Hun An also acknowledged DeChambeau’s involvement in the player discussions, with An stating that players knew as much as anyone else regarding the Michigan Team Championship’s status.

Operational changes and upcoming events

The league has already experienced operational adjustments since the PIF’s withdrawal of future funding. One event in New Orleans was postponed without a rescheduled date. Additionally, Mobii, a company that powered LIV’s “Any Shot, Any Time” streaming feature, is reportedly seeking damages after its contract was pulled midseason. The Asian Tour, which previously worked with LIV Golf to provide playing opportunities, announced a partnership with the PGA Tour and DP World Tour last month.

Despite these challenges, LIV Golf is planning for its upcoming events. The league is scheduled to play in Indianapolis from August 20-23. The “LIV Golf 2.0” plan envisions 10 team events annually, with five held in the United States and five internationally. The league also aims to organize events leading into major tournaments and establish a schedule that allows its players to participate in other circuits. Players like Rahm and Tyrrell Hatton already compete on the European tour, though the PGA Tour maintains a one-year ban on those who compete in LIV Golf events.

The season-ending team championship in Michigan has been a subject of doubt for several weeks, partly due to the lack of setup for a tournament scheduled to start in three weeks. O’Neil met with team captains on Tuesday, and DeChambeau led a player-only meeting later that afternoon, though specific details were not shared by the players.

Source: sportsnet.ca