Overview
- The Saudi‑backed league will switch from 54 to 72 holes for regular events in 2026, keeping shotgun starts and team play and expanding qualification routes.
- Speaking in Abu Dhabi, Rory McIlroy called the change “peculiar,” arguing LIV could have earned world‑ranking points with three rounds and questioning any ranking benefit given weaker fields.
- Lee Westwood brushed off McIlroy’s remarks, saying the shift benefits players, sponsors and fans, and citing majors preparation and OWGR criteria as factors.
- Commentary from outlets including Golfweek and the Sydney Morning Herald frames the move as a retreat from LIV’s original identity after limited commercial traction and only two major wins by LIV players since 2022.
- LIV also announced a multiyear partnership with Trackman to integrate ball‑tracking technology across broadcasts and on‑site venues as it seeks greater legitimacy.