LIV Golf: Sergio Garcia says players told Saudi Arabia venture would run for ‘many years’ amid rumours of collapse
Uncertainty surrounds the course’s future, with LIV Golf yet to respond to BBC requests for comment and senior golf officials telling us they are trying to clarify what the situation is.
A Saudi source told us the speculation may be linked to the release on Thursday of a new four-year strategy for PIF, the country’s sovereign wealth fund that finances LIV.
Even before the latest conflict in the Middle East, there was a perception that the PIF was placing a new emphasis on more sustainable investments and that its LIV plans were under renewed scrutiny, particularly with the 2034 World Cup seen as a greater sporting priority.
That uncertainty was compounded after LIV’s top star, Brooks Koepka, returned to the PGA Tour earlier this year.
Then in February, amid billions of dollars in investment and huge financial losses, LIV’s CEO admitted that it could take another decade to turn a profit.
However, it would still be a shocking development for the sport if Saudi Arabia were to seriously reduce or even end its commitment to the breakaway series.
LIV has made huge progress in golf over the last five years and, given the size of the stated ambition and the amount of money already invested, such a development would raise significant questions about the kingdom’s remaining major sports businesses.
