LIV Golf Faces Transition: Layoffs and Future Plans

Introduction

LIV Golf has announced that numerous employees will face layoffs starting the first week of September. This decision follows the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF)’s announcement that it will cease funding the golf circuit after the 2026 season.

End of the 2026 Season

The final event of LIV Golf’s 2026 campaign ended on August 23 in Indianapolis. The Team Championship in Michigan, scheduled for the end of the month, was canceled earlier, leading to an early conclusion.

A LIV Golf spokesperson stated: “The funding commitment announced by PIF earlier this year will reach its conclusion. As a result, we are scaling back operations as we transition to the next chapter of LIV Golf and work toward making LIV 2.0 a reality.”

Impact on Employees

Mass layoffs were expected, with employees informed that their roles under the current version, LIV 1.0, would end in September. LIV Golf expresses gratitude for the employees’ efforts in building the organization and remains committed to supporting those affected.

Looking Ahead: LIV 2.0

LIV leadership is optimistic about continuing the league in 2027, calling it ‘LIV 2.0’. There is hope that many laid-off employees can return. CEO Scott O’Neil disclosed at a press conference that a new investor has been secured and a term sheet signed. Specific details about the investor have not been announced yet.

O’Neil stated: “LIV Golf has an agreement in place with a lead investor, signed by the investor and approved by the Board, to anchor the transaction and play a key role in supporting the path forward for the League’s next era, driven by and for the players.”

Future Plans

Plans for LIV 2.0 include players holding a majority equity. The 2027 schedule is expected to feature 10 events, split between five in the United States and five globally.