LIV Golf makes significant announcement regarding long-term future

LIV Golf has taken a major step towards securing its future by retaining investment bank Ducera Partners LLC to lead its long-term capital strategy, as the league prepares for life beyond Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) backing after 2026.

The breakaway circuit confirmed the move this week, signalling its intent to transition into a diversified, multi-partner investment model and attract new long-term investors. 

The decision comes in response to last week’s confirmation that PIF will no longer fund LIV Golf beyond the 2026 season, placing increased importance on establishing a sustainable financial structure. 

In order to go about doing that, LIV Golf last week announced strategic board appointments in light of the PIF ending its investment of the league.

Ducera, a leading advisory firm founded in 2015 by Chief Executive Officer Michael Kramer, has been tasked with guiding LIV Golf through what is expected to be a pivotal period in its evolution. 

The firm brings extensive experience in high-stakes corporate finance, having advised on more than $850 billion in transactions across sport, media and entertainment.

"This league has proven its value, and our focus now is on building the right financial foundation for the long term," said Scott O'Neil, CEO of LIV Golf.

"Mike and the Ducera team bring deep transaction experience and a track record of delivering in complex, high-stakes situations. They are the right partner for this process."

Kramer, who has more than 30 years of experience advising organisations through transformational periods, echoed that confidence in LIV Golf’s long-term potential.

“LIV Golf has built something that is hard to replicate: a global league with a growing fan base, world-class talent, and a team structure that benefits captains, players, and fans alike,” said Mr. Kramer.

 "We see significant value in what has been created here, and we are focused on helping the league identify the right long-term partners to unlock that value and power its next phase."

LIV Golf claims it enters this new phase with strong commercial momentum. 

Sponsorships and partnerships are reportedly up 40% year-on-year, while ticket sales have grown by more than 130%. 

The league also claims a broadcast reach approaching one billion households across 200 countries and territories.

The appointment of Ducera follows additional structural changes within LIV Golf, including the recent addition of independent directors Gene Davis and Jon Zinman. 

These moves reflect a broader strategy to evolve from its initial launch phase into a more sustainable, investor-backed model.

"The Board sees a clear opportunity in front of this league, and engaging Ducera is a direct reflection of that conviction,” said Gene Davis, Chairman of the Independent Director Committee. 

"They bring the expertise and global reach to help us run a rigorous process and secure the partners that will guide this league into its next chapter with renewed strength.”

With the clock ticking towards PIF’s exit, LIV Golf’s ability to attract new capital will be crucial. However, by retaining Ducera and outlining a clear financial roadmap, the league is aiming to position itself for long-term stability and continued global growth.