Overview
- Alongside the format shift, LIV is expanding promotion pathways by doubling entry spots via the Asian Tour’s International Series and the LIV Promotions Event, scheduled for January 8–11, 2026 at Black Diamond Ranch in Florida.
- Top LIV names including Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau and Dustin Johnson endorsed the move, aligning with CEO Scott O’Neil’s broader commercial push for sponsors, TV reach and credibility.
- Rory McIlroy labeled the change “peculiar,” saying three versus four rounds was not the main obstacle to ranking points and cautioning that weaker fields could limit any gains.
- Asian Tour commissioner Cho Minn Thant said discussions with new OWGR chair Trevor Immelman are progressing and “very close,” though no approval has been announced.
- Commentary highlights that shotgun starts will remain but warns the shift erodes a key differentiator for LIV even as it aims to secure legitimacy and keep players’ routes into majors.