On February 4, the new LIV Golf League season kicks off with new players and rules. An overview of the teams and all changes.
The LIV Golf season starts on February 4 with several changes and new faces. Along with format adjustments, prize money and point systems have been updated.
More Holes, Higher Prize Money and Expanded Points
The LIV Golf League begins 2026 with an enhanced competition concept. More rounds, a broader points system, and increased prize money bring several changes for the new season. A total of 57 players, including 52 permanent team players and five wildcard players, make up the field. Distributed among 13 teams, each with four professionals plus the wildcards competing only individually, 14 events will be played featuring both team and individual standings.
New Points System: Every Point Counts in the Prize Money Race
For 2026, LIV Golf introduces a more comprehensive points system. Each event awards a total of 1,000 individual points, with the winner receiving 200 points. Crucially, every position earns points, replacing the previous all-or-nothing system.
There is also a shift in the team scoring approach. Previously, only the top 8 teams collected points; now all teams are rewarded. The winner earns 30 points, the runner-up 15, and even the last place team gets 2 points, ensuring every team remains competitive until the final day.
The financial aspect has also significantly grown: the weekly team prize fund doubles from 5 to 10 million dollars. Additionally, starting 2026, every team earns prize money depending on their finish rather than only the best teams. A new individual prize model awards 2.3 million euros weekly to the top individual players on the podium teams. Overall, a total of 470 million euros in prize money is available this season.
Team Championship as the Grand LIV Golf Season Finale
The season concludes with the 14th event, the Team Championship, dedicated solely to the team title. The format begins with match play: quarter- and semi-finals feature two singles matches (1v1) and a foursome per team. Sunday’s final round is stroke play with all four team players competing together, all scores counting. The lowest overall team score determines the season’s team champion.
Teams Overview and National Identity Focus
A notable new focus among the teams is on national identity. Increasingly, teams embody a national focus highlighting cultural identity. Former Iron Heads GC rebrands as Korean Golf Club for 2026, emphasizing Korea’s cultural identity. Southern Guard GC (formerly Stinger Golf Club) focuses on South African culture. Other national teams include Ripper GC (Australia), Majesticks GC (England), and Fireballs GC (Spain).
With 10 players leaving the league and new wildcard spots, there are 12 personnel changes among the teams.
Cleeks Golf Club: Martin Kaymer, Richard Bland, Adrian Meronk, Victor Perez (new for Frederik Kjettrup)
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