LIV Golf Extends Events to 72 Holes as OWGR Push Meets Fresh Scrutiny

Overview

• LIV said on Nov. 4 it will shift to 72-hole, four-day events beginning in 2026 while retaining shotgun starts and team play.
• The move targets Official World Golf Ranking recognition after a 2023 denial that left most LIV players gaining points primarily at majors.
• Rory McIlroy labeled the change peculiar, Bryson DeChambeau praised the alignment with traditional formats, and analysts argued it addresses only a small part of OWGR concerns about access and pathways.
• Commentators highlighted that OWGR now weights fields using strokes-gained performance, suggesting low current rankings alone would not preclude LIV players from earning points if sanctioned.
• PGA Tour policy denies releases for the Jan. 8–11, 2026 LIV Promotions event in Florida and warns participating members of discipline, as LIV under CEO Scott O’Neil expands qualification routes and adds sponsors such as Trackman.