Asian Tour Ends LIV Golf Alliance, Partners with PGA and DP World Tours

Asian Tour Realigns Global Alliances

The Asian Tour is ending its association with LIV Golf. This decision removes the International Series from the Asian Tour’s schedule. The International Series launched in 2022. It formed part of LIV Golf’s investment into the Asian Tour. The series offered higher prize funds, reaching up to $2 million per event. It also created a route for players to join LIV Golf.

Scott Vincent, for instance, won the 2022 International Series Order of Merit. This secured his entry into the 2023 LIV Golf League. LIV Golf players regularly competed in these events. Their participation strengthened tournament fields considerably. The arrangement provided LIV with a system to identify talent.

It also gave the Asian Tour greater prize money and international exposure. However, this relationship is now being replaced.

New Partnership with PGA Tour and DP World Tour

The Asian Tour has agreed to a new alliance. This partnership involves the PGA Tour and the DP World Tour. It will begin in 2027. This agreement creates pathways for leading Asian Tour players. They will gain access to the DP World Tour. The alliance also includes plans for co-sanctioned events across Asia. Asian Tour chief executive Cho Minn Thant explained the decision.

He stated the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) change in golf investment strategy was a primary factor. The PIF’s withdrawal of funding from LIV surprised many. Mr Cho confirmed discussions to renew the LIV partnership for five years were underway. These plans changed dramatically when the funding landscape shifted. This necessitated exploring other avenues for the tour’s future.

Revised Event Schedule for Asia

The shift in partnerships will alter the Asian Tour’s event calendar. The International Series stop in India has been cancelled. The venue confirmed this decision. The China event is also expected to be removed. From 2027, the Hong Kong Open will become a co-sanctioned event. Four other tournaments are also slated for co-sanctioning with the DP World Tour.

The Philippine Open will remain a full Asian Tour event. The season-ending PIF Saudi International’s status remains uncertain. Its future depends on the security situation in the region. Mr Cho cited time constraints for the remainder of 2026. Planning for the 2027 season also faced challenges. He noted a partnership with the DP World Tour and PGA Tour offered stability. It also provided commercial support and new events for members.

LIV Players and Future Uncertainty

LIV Golf players holding Asian Tour membership can still compete in Asian Tour events. Those without status may seek sponsor exemptions. This is possible if their participation adds value to tournaments. This timing could be significant for LIV players. Many may be seeking alternatives for next season. LIV Golf faces an uncertain future.

Its chief executive is discussing a reimagined league, 'LIV Golf 2.0'. A new investment partner has reportedly been secured. However, it remains unclear if star players will commit. Jon Rahm is reportedly tied until 2029. Bryson DeChambeau’s contract expires at the end of this season. Telegraph Sport reported LIV bosses are resigned to losing Rahm.

The DP World Tour may resume fining and suspending LIV players in 2027. This adds another layer of complexity for those players.

Implications for Asian Golfers and Tournaments

This strategic realignment significantly impacts Asian golf. Players on the Asian Tour now have a direct pathway to the DP World Tour from 2027. This provides clear career progression within established global golf structures. The planned co-sanctioned events will bring a higher profile to tournaments in Asia.

Golfers travelling to play in Asia can expect a consolidated tournament calendar. This change may reduce scheduling conflicts across tours. The stability offered by the PGA Tour and DP World Tour alliance could drive long-term growth. It may also attract more international talent to Asian events.

The future of the PIF Saudi International, however, remains a key watch point for regional competition. Its status will influence the season's conclusion for many players.