Ian Poulter has dismissed the latest uncertainty around LIV Golf’s future, delivering a defiant message that it is still “full steam ahead” despite increasing speculation about the league’s long-term funding.
Reports this week have suggested that the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), which bankrolls LIV Golf, could withdraw financial support after the 2026 season. That has intensified questions over the league’s sustainability, especially after the huge sums already invested since its launch in 2022.
The article says PIF has put in $5 billion since LIV Golf began, while financial losses have also been substantial. Figures last year reportedly pointed to a 2024 operating loss of about $462 million outside the United States, pushing total losses since the league’s launch beyond $1.1 billion.
LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil has circulated an email to players and staff saying the 2026 season will go ahead as planned. At the same time, he acknowledged that future funding models in sport are never guaranteed and need ongoing planning. He said the league is funded through the current season and that the business is continuing to work hard on building a plan to keep going.
Poulter, who has co-captained Majesticks GC since the beginning, said the rumours are not causing much distraction. He said LIV is now in year five of what he described as a start-up business and noted that the league has been under pressure throughout that period.
He also said LIV has a strong product and has already made numerous changes. According to Poulter, if more changes are needed going forward, that will happen across golf in general, whether involving the DP World Tour, the PGA Tour, or LIV. He said the focus remains on what the players can control, which is going out to play golf.
On the course, Poulter stayed focused on performance. He opened LIV Golf Mexico City with a four-under-par round on Thursday, then slipped back with a one-over 72 on Friday, leaving him in the chasing pack going into the weekend.
The article adds that Jon Rahm held a one-shot lead at 10-under par heading into the weekend. Rahm also played down the speculation, saying he had been reassured by those around him not to worry about the rumours.
LIV Golf Mexico City, being played at Club de Golf Chapultepec, is the sixth event in the 14-tournament 2026 LIV schedule. (golfmagic.com)
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