Saudi Money Stops, Now LIV Golf Is Cutting Jobs and Fighting for Its Future

LIV Golf has begun cutting jobs and scaling back operations as the breakaway league prepares for a major restructuring following the end of financial backing from Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF).

Employees have been informed that many jobs will end in the first week of September, although the league has not revealed how many workers will be affected. LIV said it was reducing operations as it transitions towards a new version of the competition, referred to as LIV 2.0.

The restructuring comes after PIF decided to conclude its funding commitment following the 2026 season. LIV had already warned employees about possible layoffs and filed a notice in July indicating that staff reductions were likely.

CEO Scott O'Neil is now working to secure a deal with a lead investor, with multiple reports linking private equity firm BC Partners to the proposed investment. LIV hopes to finalise the agreement in September, which could determine the shape and scale of the league's future.

The league has already shortened its schedule, dropping events in New Orleans and the planned team championship in Michigan. O'Neil has reportedly proposed a leaner 10-tournament calendar, split between the United States and international venues.

Questions also remain over the future of star players such as Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau, while LIV faces lawsuits over alleged unpaid vendor bills. O'Neil has also not ruled out bankruptcy as part of the restructuring.

LIV Golf's early years were marked by huge spending and lucrative player contracts. Its next chapter, however, will be built around cost cuts, fresh investment and commercial discipline as the league fights to secure its future.