LIV Golf player Ian Poulter has voiced skepticism about the future of the Saudi Arabia-backed breakaway tour, suggesting that funding may cease after the 2026 season.
Poulter, an early signatory to LIV Golf, indicated in a recent "GOLF LIFE" YouTube appearance that the tour faces a significant challenge in securing the necessary capital. He noted a "hard deadline" of September 1 to find $300 million to continue operations. "I think time might run out," Poulter stated when asked about LIV Golf's continuation beyond 2026.
The Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, which has been the primary financial backer of LIV Golf, announced its intention to withdraw funding at the end of the 2026 season. This decision has fueled speculation about the tour's viability and the future for its players.
While LIV Golf CEO Scott O'Neil has asserted that outside investors are interested in continuing to support the tour and mentioned a signed term sheet with an anonymous lead backer, many players remain uncertain. Some high-profile players, such as Brooks Koepka, have already rejoined the PGA Tour, and Jon Rahm is reportedly nearing a departure from LIV.
Poulter acknowledged the difficult position many LIV Golf players could find themselves in. He noted that while star players like DeChambeau and Rahm will likely have options, golfers with less prominent careers or younger players who have forgone other tours might face limited choices. Poulter, who is 50, mentioned the possibility of playing on the Champions Tour if LIV Golf does not continue in a new iteration.
The breakaway tour, which began with substantial guaranteed contracts and high prize purses to attract top talent, has struggled to achieve profitability. Despite signing some notable names, its momentum has reportedly stalled in recent years, with many top golfers opting to remain with the PGA Tour.
Poulter's comments suggest that the situation is pressing, with potential outcomes for the tour and its players needing to be determined in the coming weeks.