Saudi Fund May Cut LIV Golf Money by April 17, 2026, Affecting Players

Reports say Saudi Arabia's PIF may cut LIV Golf funding by April 17, 2026. This is a big change from their large investment.
By Newsroom | Sports, Golf |

Speculation over the future of LIV Golf has intensified as reports suggest Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) is on the verge of withdrawing its financial support for the breakaway golf league. This potential shift comes as the PIF, LIV Golf's sole financier, is reportedly implementing a new five-year investment strategy that prioritizes a tighter focus on spending. A decision on the PIF's future involvement could be announced as early as Thursday, April 17, 2026, according to a report by the Financial Times.

Players 'have not heard' rumours Saudi PIF may cut LIV Golf funding - 1

Players Unaware of Funding Rumors

Despite the swirling rumors, players involved with LIV Golf claim to be unaware of any impending funding cuts. Sergio Garcia, a prominent LIV Golf participant, stated that players have been assured the venture would continue for "many years" and that they would only be informed by the chairman. He added that players were only privy to the same information available publicly. LIV Golf executives were reportedly summoned to an emergency meeting in New York City, with CEO Scott O'Neil subsequently traveling to Mexico City, where LIV Golf is scheduled to hold a tournament starting Thursday. O'Neil had previously indicated that profitability for LIV Golf was projected to be five to ten years away.

Read More: LIV Golf Continues 2026 Season Despite Funding Worries

Players 'have not heard' rumours Saudi PIF may cut LIV Golf funding - 2

League Maintains Business-as-Usual Stance

LIV Golf has publicly projected a "business-as-usual" approach amidst the uncertainty. The tournament in Mexico City is proceeding as scheduled, with players practicing and tee times confirmed. The league has seen some commercial traction over the past year, securing sponsorships from entities such as HSBC, Salesforce, and Rolex.

Players 'have not heard' rumours Saudi PIF may cut LIV Golf funding - 3

However, reports indicate that LIV Golf has struggled to establish a sustainable foothold and has faced challenges in areas such as television ratings and attracting top-tier talent, with notable departures including major champions Brooks Koepka and Phil Mickelson. The league's financial performance has not come close to recouping the kingdom's substantial investment.

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Background of the Breakaway League

LIV Golf emerged as a significant disruptor in professional golf, initiating a schism with the established PGA Tour. The league's creation, backed by the PIF, led to high-profile player defections and legal disputes. The proposed merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf ultimately failed to materialize, leaving the future structure of professional golf in flux. While LIV Golf altered the landscape, its long-term viability has been a subject of ongoing debate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why might Saudi Arabia's PIF stop funding LIV Golf?
Reports suggest the PIF is changing its investment plan to focus more on spending. A decision could come by April 17, 2026.
Q: Do LIV Golf players know about the funding rumors?
No, players like Sergio Garcia say they have not been told directly and only know what is public. They were told the league would continue for years.
Q: Is LIV Golf still holding its tournament in Mexico?
Yes, the tournament in Mexico City is still happening as planned. Players are practicing and tee times are confirmed.
Q: Has LIV Golf been successful commercially?
While LIV Golf has gotten some sponsors like HSBC and Rolex, it has struggled to get good TV ratings and attract top players. It has not made back the money invested.
Q: What happens next for LIV Golf if funding stops?
If the PIF cuts funding, the future of LIV Golf is uncertain. It could lead to major changes for the league and the players involved.