LIV Golf Enforces Strict Relegation as Ian Poulter Teeters on Tour Card Loss
Scott O’Neil introduced the policy to boost LIV’s OWGR application by making card retention solely performance-based
Overview
- LIV Golf has confirmed that no captains or owners will receive exemptions under its new relegation rules this season
- Ian Poulter currently ranks 51st and must finish inside the top 48, win an International Series event, or prevail in the December Promotions tournament to secure his 2026 card
- The shift follows LIV’s resubmission for Official World Golf Rankings status, prompting tougher meritocratic criteria and greater player turnover
- Notable players including Eugenio Chacarra, Scott Vincent, and Kalle Samooja have already lost their spots under the no-exemption policy
- Relegated golfers can seek limited requalification through International Series events, the year-end Promotions tournament, or by settling fines to return to the DP World Tour