LIV GOLF, the global golf league, has announced that starting in 2026, all its tournaments will be played over 72 holes, marking the next phase in the league’s efforts to evolve and elevate the sport for a new generation of players and fans worldwide.
Since its launch, LIV Golf events have followed a three-day, 54-hole format, typically played from Friday to Sunday. From 2026, however, tournaments will extend to four days, generally running from Thursday to Sunday (with LIV Golf Riyadh presented by ROSHN set to begin on Wednesday, 4 February).
Under the updated structure, the individual competition at each regular-season event will be decided over 72 holes of stroke play. The team competition will continue concurrently, with each team’s total individual scores determining their overall result. Retaining one of LIV Golf’s signature features, the shotgun start format will remain in place to preserve the league’s fast-paced, fan-friendly atmosphere. Details of the season-ending Team Championship format will be revealed at a later date.
The league reported significant growth in its global audience, claiming a nearly 90% year-on-year increase since its partnership with FOX Sports began in January. This collaboration boosted live viewership in the United States and expanded LIV Golf’s broadcast reach to nearly 900 million households across more than 200 countries.
LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil said, “As we enter our fourth season as a League, the move to 72 holes marks a pivotal new chapter for LIV Golf that strengthens our League, challenges our elite field of players, and delivers more of the world-class golf, energy, innovation and access that our global audience wants. We’re seeing upward momentum and traction from Hong Kong to Adelaide to Indianapolis, and that heightened interest opens the door to add another day of golf while benefiting our fans, players, marketing partners, and our global media partners. The most successful leagues around the world – IPL, EPL, NBA, MLB, NFL – continue to innovate and evolve their product, and as an emerging league, we are no different. LIV Golf will always have an eye towards progress that acts in the best interest of LIV Golf and in the best interest of the sport.”
