LIV Golf League to launch in 2023 with promotion and relegation

It’s had just two events, a series of roster changes, and a seemingly endless amount of controversy, and now LIV Golf have confirmed they will remodel their format and change their name from 2023.

The breakaway circuit had originally planned to continue its ‘Invitational Series’ format for several years before reassessing. However, the LIV Golf League will now launch next year and will feature 14 events each with a set 48-man field consisting of 12 four-man teams which will remain unchanged for the entirety of the season.

This contrasts to the 2022 season, which has just eight events planned while continuing to tinker its field.

The LIV Golf League’s 2023 schedule, which will take its roster of stars to Australia and Latin America, will be announced at a later date, though the statement does confirm they will continue their $300 million partnership with the Asian Tour and its International Series, which will feature tournaments around the world, including England.

As suggested by new LIV signing Paul Casey, players will assemble “en masse” for the International Series events as they bid to earn the world ranking points that will keep them in the major picture.

“Our franchise model will bring new energy and excitement to fans from all corners of the world, establishing a league of teams to connect and grow with,” LIV Golf’s CEO and commissioner Greg Norman said. “The International Series will attract new talent and offer unprecedented pathways that develop the next generation of stars. LIV Golf is committed to making sustainable investments that grow the game now and for the future, and we are proud to turn these dreams into a reality.”

LIV Golf have also confirmed the news that leaked earlier in the week, with an end-of-season promotion and relegation-style event ensuring a fresh field each season and a clear pathway for players to make it into the LIV Golf League.

There is also a promise that the league “will not compete with the majors, international team events or heritage events so the best players in the game will always be able to make their own choices about where to play”.

Alex Perry

Alex has been the editor of National Club Golfer since 2017. A Devonian who enjoys wittering on about his south west roots, Alex moved north to join NCG after more than a decade in London, the last five of which were with ESPN. Away from golf, Alex follows Torquay United and spends too much time playing his PlayStation or his guitar and not enough time practising his short game.