Reports, including from the Financial Times, have suggested Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) could be preparing to withdraw support for LIV Golf, a move that would place the tour’s long-term viability in doubt
But in an email sent to LIV staff – and obtained by ESPN, the Associated Press and AFP – O’Neil dismissed the uncertainty, writing: “I want to be crystal clear: Our season continues exactly as planned, uninterrupted and at full throttle.
“The life of a start-up movement is often defined by these moments of pressure.
“While the road isn’t always smooth, the destination is worth every mile. Let’s go out and show the world why LIV Golf is the future of the game.”
Despite the reassurance, the message did not clarify LIV Golf’s position beyond the current season. However, players were previously informed that funding is secured through at least 2032.
Fireballs captain Sergio Garcia said ahead of Thursday’s LIV Mexico opener that players had been told earlier this year the circuit is expected to operate for “many years”.
Garcia also pushed back on reports of a possible PIF exit, saying: “That is not what Yasir [Al-Rumayyan, governor of PIF] told us at the beginning of the year.
“[He told us] that he is behind us, that they have a project of many years. There are always rumours.”
However, questions around LIV’s financial viability persist. The league reportedly recorded $462m in losses in 2024 alone, with total losses since its 2021 launch exceeding $1.1bn. Overall PIF investment is said to be nearing $5bn, while broadcast revenue has remained minimal.
While LIV has expanded its global footprint in recent years – including a well-received debut event in South Africa last month – not all tournaments have drawn the same level of local support or commercial traction across different markets.
The uncertainty comes amid reports of a change in focus in Saudi investment strategy, with sources indicating a shift towards technology and AI-focused projects, and increased pressure to achieve real returns.
