The PGA Tour Faces Challenges with LIV Golf’s 2026 Qualifier
The PGA Tour will classify the LIV Golf Promotions event as unauthorized since it takes place in North America. Consequently, players with or without PGA Tour status risk suspension if they choose to participate.
LIV Golf announced its Promotions event scheduled for January 8-11 at Black Diamond Ranch in Lecanto, Florida. This tournament offers two players a chance to secure a spot in the 2026 league lineup.
Authorization and Media Rights Restrictions
The core issue for the PGA Tour is the location of the event on North American soil. According to Tour regulations, players are not granted media rights releases or permission to compete in conflicting tournaments held in North America.
Historical Context and Player Impact
This rule has posed challenges since LIV’s inaugural 2022 season. Back then, players with PGA Tour status sought to participate in LIV’s initial series of individual tournaments, including the second event held in Portland, Oregon. No player was granted a release to compete in that or any other U.S.-based LIV event.
“The issue for the Tour is the tournament site being in North America. The Tour’s regulations state that players will not be granted conflicting events or media releases for tournaments staged in North America.”
“LIV Golf on Monday announced that their Promotions event to be played Jan. 8-11 at the Black Diamond Ranch in Lecanto, Fla., will see two players earn a spot in the 2026 league lineup.”
LIV Golf’s Response
So far, LIV Golf has not addressed whether the league was aware that holding the event in Florida would lead to it being deemed unauthorized by the PGA Tour.
Summary
The PGA Tour’s firm stance on North American events continues to create friction with LIV Golf, affecting player participation and complicating the qualification process for the 2026 season.
Author's summary: LIV Golf’s decision to hold a qualifier in Florida triggers PGA Tour restrictions, risking player suspensions and highlighting ongoing conflicts over North American tournament locations.