LIV Golf has announced major changes to its format for 2026.
The breakaway league announced Tuesday that it will move from the standard 54-hole tournament it has had since its inception in 2022 to a 72-hole tournament, thereby expanding the event from three to four days.
Events typically start on the Thursday of the event week instead of on Friday as in previous years.
The unusual 54-hole format was a factor in the Official World Golf Ranking denying the league event ranking points.
The change to 72 holes and the start of events primarily on Thursdays brings LIV Golf more in line with the PGA Tour and is likely to make the circuit more attractive to players who care about ranking points, as it plays a key role in establishing entry into the four majors.
A statement said the move marks “the next chapter in LIV Golf’s mission to grow and celebrate the sport for a new era for players and fans around the world.”
The statement added that the individual competition for each regular event will be played over 72 holes, with the team competition running in parallel, with all players’ scores contributing to the daily team total. The format for the post-season team championship will be announced at a later date.
“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to compete in this race,” said Jon Rahm, the circuit’s reigning champion and two-time major champion and Region XIII captain. “This is a win for the league and the players.
“LIV Golf is a league of players. We are competitors at heart and want every opportunity to compete at the highest level and perfect our craft.
“Moving to 72 holes is the logical next step to strengthen the competition, test us more completely and, if the gallery increase from last season is any indication, give our fans even more of what they want.”
Fellow two-time major champion Bryson DeChambeau said, “Everybody, especially in the majors, wants to see the best players in the world competing against each other. There has to be a path forward to make the game better.”
“By moving to 72 holes, LIV Golf is actively aligning itself with a historic, globally recognized format.
