LIV Golf, which has pitched itself as a faster-paced different to the PGA Tour with 54-hole tournaments, shotgun begins and staff competitions, will transfer to 72-hole occasions beginning in 2026, the league introduced Tuesday.
Particular person and staff competitions, which coincide with the shotgun begin, will nonetheless be a part of the LIV Golf League, however the event shall be one spherical longer and can now usually start on a Thursday.
“Essentially the most profitable leagues around the globe (IPL, EPL, NBA, MLB, NFL) proceed to innovate and evolve their merchandise, and as an rising league, we are not any exception,” LIV Golf League CEO Scott O’Neal mentioned in a press release. “LIV Golf all the time appears to be like to advances which are in the most effective curiosity of LIV Golf and the game.”
The league, which is funded by Saudi Arabia’s Public Funding Fund, goals to be included within the Official World Golf Rating, giving golfers a path to main championships. OWGR rejected the applying in October 2023 for the primary season of competitors.
OWGR officers mentioned the applying was denied as a result of the league is a personal store and particular person efficiency might be compromised by staff competitors. All golfers’ scores now rely towards staff standings.
LIV Golf reapplied for OWGR certification in July.
“Everybody needs to see the most effective gamers on this planet compete, particularly within the majors, and we’d like a path ahead to enhance the sport,” Crushers GC captain Bryson DeChambeau mentioned in a press release.
“With the transfer to 72 holes, LIV Golf is taking a proactive step to align with a historic, globally acknowledged format. It is a nice evolution of the LIV Golf product and exhibits how our league is listening and adapting to create the most effective expertise potential.”
LIV Golf will open its 2026 season in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia from February 4th to seventh.
