US Government Sets Firm Rules for LIV Golf in New Email Released
The American government has asked to meet with LIV Golf officials amid rumors that the league might shut down. LIV Golf is going through a tough time, with reports saying the Saudi-backed league could collapse just five years after it started.
People think that in the next few months, LIV Golf might make a big announcement. There are worries the Saudi Arabian Public Investment Fund (PIF) could stop supporting the league because of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
LIV Golf chief O’Neil has spoken about these rumors several times, saying the current season will “continue exactly as planned” and that funding is secured until the season ends. But the US government, along with others, isn’t fully convinced that LIV Golf’s future is safe. Officials in Louisiana have asked to talk with the league’s leaders.
Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois sent an email to LIV Golf asking for answers about an event planned for later this year. LIV Golf is scheduled to come to New Orleans from June 25–28 for the first time. Bourgeois said she needs to hear back by Monday, April 20, to be sure the event will happen.
“We are concerned about the reports this week,” Bourgeois said. “They are in Mexico now, but by Monday, we need a clear update on the situation.”
LIV Golf hasn’t replied to the email yet, but a spokesperson for Governor Jeff Landry said, “So far, we haven’t been told anything about LIV shutting down or pulling out.”
The deal, made last August, said the Bayou Oaks Golf Course in City Park would host the tournament. Louisiana offered a $7.2 million incentive package, which included a $5 million hosting fee for LIV Golf and $2.2 million for upgrades to the course.
If the deal falls apart, Bourgeois and Senate President Cameron Henry confirmed that LIV would have to pay back part of the $5 million hosting fee they already received. “We have a clawback plan if they fail,” Henry said. “If they close, we can ask for our money back.”
Louisiana’s worries grew after golf reporter Ryan French said a “bombshell” announcement is coming soon. He claims players and staff haven’t been paid lately.
On X Spaces, French said, “I have good sources, and others have sources too, that LIV is shutting down. Players didn’t get paid today, the power was cut off because bills weren’t paid, and employees also haven’t been paid. There’s a lot going on, and things aren’t good.”