LIV Golf announces mass layoffs amid end of Saudi funding

LIV Golf has announced massive layoffs, informing a majority of its workforce that their employment will end in the first week of September. The restructuring follows the decision by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) to end its financial backing after the 2026 season. The league, which has employed approximately 300 people across offices in the United States and the United Kingdom, is scaling back operations to transition toward a new model referred to as ‘LIV 2.0’.

CEO Scott O’Neil is reportedly working to finalize a new investment deal, potentially with BC Partners, to secure between $250 million and $350 million in funding. This capital is seen as essential for launching a scaled-back 10-event schedule in 2027. The league’s recent season concluded abruptly in Indianapolis, following the cancellation of a team championship in Michigan and a tournament in New Orleans.

The organization faces significant financial pressure, including reports of unpaid invoices to vendors and a slashed prize purse for its most recent event. While leadership remains optimistic about the transition, the future of the league and the commitment of its star players remain uncertain as the organization seeks to achieve profitability.