LIV Golf secures ‘lead’ investor for player-driven future after Saudi exit

LIV Golf has secured an unnamed "lead investor" to fund its future operations, replacing the previous deal with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF). The LIV Golf board has approved this agreement, which is expected to close in September. CEO Scott O'Neil announced that players will become majority equity holders in the league, a move intended to ensure long-term stability and growth. This development comes after the PIF announced in April that it would cease funding LIV Golf at the end of 2026, leading to event cancellations and reports of potential bankruptcy. The league plans to continue with a schedule of 10 events next season, with strong interest from additional minority investors.

LIV Golf has secured a lead investor, allowing the league to continue operations without Saudi Arabian funding and making players major equity holders. CEO Scott O'Neil announced the agreement, which has been approved by LIV's board and signals a new era for the league, driven by its players. The league is also in talks with over a dozen other parties interested in becoming minority investors. This development comes as LIV Golf faces the end of its funding from the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia after the 2026 season. The proposed "LIV Golf 2.0" plans for 10 team events annually, with five in the U.S. and five internationally, and aims to schedule events around major tournaments while allowing players to compete on other tours.