Report: LIV Golf shuffles leadership team ahead of next week's investor push

LIV Golf is set to head to the market next week with a team of existing employees stepping into new executive roles, according to a report. 

The move comes amid continued uncertainty over the future of the breakaway tour following the decision of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) to withdraw its multibillion-dollar backing of the venture at the end of the season.

That decision, officially announced in April, has prompted LIV chief executive, Scott O'Neil to accelerate efforts to secure fresh investment. 

LIV is reportedly seeking between $250–350 million to keep the league operating in 2026, with a potential reduced schedule of around 10 events and prize funds cut to roughly $5–10m, down significantly from $30m.

A memo sent to players during the league's event in Korea is said to have outlined plans for LIV to go to market next week, according to Sports Business Journal. 

Alongside the funding push, LIV has also reshuffled several senior roles, the report stated. 

Richard Marsh, who has been involved with the league since its launch, has been appointed as an advisor to O'Neil. 

Ollie Banks - previously a co-manager of the Majesticks alongside James Dunkley -  has been named executive vice president and chief championship officer. 

Dunkley will handle the Majesticks' business affairs on his own, whilst also stepping into the position of regional managing director of the UK region. 

Katie O'Reilly has been appointed head of team operations, and Chris Bentley has taken on the role of global managing director.

LIV's future may also depend on the ability to retain some of their biggest players. 

Bryson DeChambeau was recruited to the league in 2022 alongside several multiple PGA Tour winners, major champions and ageing European Ryder Cup stars. 

DeChambeau, who reportedly received $120m up front, penned a five-year deal. 

His contract expires at the end of the season and he has spoken of his anguish over whether or not to continue playing professional golf or concentrate on growing his YouTube channel. 

Last week, DeChambeau insisted he was doing "everything I can" to ensure LIV's survival. 

DeChambeau told reporters he was surprised at the PIF's decision to withdraw their financial support as he was previously given assurances it would be in place until at least 2032. 

"We didn't really see that coming," said DeChambeau. "But that's okay. One door closes, another opens. 

"I think that's the way a lot of us are looking at it.

"I think we all have optimism that there is a business plan that makes sense for team golf. 

"I'm very optimistic with the business plan of team golf compared to other models, in my opinion.  

"I do see value in what team golf can provide not only worldwide but also in grass-rooting the game of golf. 

"[There is] national support, team national support, city, local support, we grass-root ourselves there.

"We'll see if investors like it or not. I'm giving all I can to make it happen, and if it doesn't, it doesn't happen."

DeChambeau admitted the uncertainty over LIV's future led to some extra pressure in the majors. 

Although he has a pair of wins on LIV this season, he missed cuts at the PGA Championship and The Masters. 

"In the background, yeah, we’re trying to help where we can," he added, 

"But ultimately, it’s up to the executives and everybody banding together. 

"If we all band together, there’s an opportunity here. If not, it’s going to be a different day for all of us."