European tour says anyone signing with LIV Golf need not apply to play both circuits

The European Tour has issued a stark ultimatum to players considering joining LIV Golf, stating that membership in the European Tour is incompatible with participation in LIV Golf. Guy Kinnings, CEO of the European Tour, made this clear in a recent statement. Historically, the DP World Tour allowed LIV players to retain their European membership by settling fines from playing LIV events that conflicted with the European schedule. However, Kinnings now demands a clear choice between the two circuits.

LIV Golf, struggling financially following Saudi Arabia's reduction of support, has spent over $5 billion since its inception in 2022. With BC Partners providing up to $300 million, the league is preparing for a 10-tournament season emphasizing team competition and player equity in LIV 2.0. Players have until October 25 to decide their allegiance, which could determine LIV Golf's survival beyond bankruptcy proceedings.

The European Tour requires players seeking membership to disclose their 2027 playing intentions, threatening termination if the disclosures prove false. Notably, players like Tyrrell Hatton, Tom McKibbin, Adrian Meronk, and Thomas Detry face pressure to choose between the two tours, given their commitments to the Ryder Cup. Attorney for Jon Rahm stated his intention to terminate his LIV contract, raising questions about his return to the PGA Tour. Sergio Garcia and David Puig have also expressed willingness to join the European Tour.

Negotiations are underway for a renewed alliance between the European Tour and the PGA Tour, aiming to provide commercial opportunities and pathways for top players on the Race to Dubai to earn PGA Tour cards. Patrick Reed and Eugenio Chacarra are guaranteed PGA Tour cards, while Bernd Wiesberger has a chance as well. However, the PGA Tour bans LIV players from competing for at least a year after their last LIV appearance, further complicating the situation.

LIV 2.0 aims for a streamlined schedule to allow players to compete elsewhere, but the European Tour insists on players choosing one tour. LIV CEO Scott O Neil emphasizes the need for players not to be uniquely restricted from playing elsewhere, stating that the goal is to complement, not replace or restrict, other tours.