The LIV Golf League season starts on February 4 with new players and rules. An overview of the teams and all changes.
The LIV Golf season begins on February 4 with several changes and new faces. Along with format adjustments, prize money and point systems have also been updated.
More Holes, Bigger Prize Money and Expanded Points
The LIV Golf League launches its 2026 season with an expanded competition format. More rounds, a broader point system, and increased prize money introduce several changes. The field consists of 57 players, including 52 fixed team members and five wildcard players. They compete in 13 teams, each with four pros plus the wildcards who compete only in the individual rankings. There will be 14 events featuring both team and individual competitions.
New Point System: Every Point Counts in Fight for Prize Money
Starting in 2026, LIV Golf introduces a comprehensive point system. Each event awards 1,000 individual points in total, with the winner receiving 200 points. Crucially, every placement earns points, replacing the previous all-or-nothing approach.
A paradigm shift also occurs in the team standings. Previously, only the top 8 teams earned points; now all teams receive points. The winner gains 30 points, second place 15, and even the last placed team earns 2 points, keeping every team competitive until the final day.
The economic dimension grows significantly: weekly team prize money doubles from $5 million to $10 million. From 2026, every team receives prize money based on ranking, not just the top finishers. Additionally, a new individual prize pool of €2.3 million per week is distributed among the top players of podium teams. Altogether, €470 million in prize money is up for grabs this season.
Team Championship as the Big Showdown of LIV Golf Tour
The season concludes with the 14th event, the Team Championship, dedicated solely to the team title. Initially, in the quarter- and semifinals, teams compete in two singles matches plus a foursome in match play format. Sunday is stroke play with all four team players competing, counting all scores. The team with the lowest aggregate score is crowned season champion.
Teams Overview
A notable trend among teams is a stronger emphasis on national identity. More teams embody a national focus and highlight cultural identity. The former Iron Heads GC competes in 2026 as the Korean Golf Club, spotlighting Korea’s cultural identity. The Southern Guards GC (formerly Stinger Golf Club) emphasizes South African culture. There are also purely Australian (Ripper GC), English (Majesticks GC), and Spanish (Fireballs GC) teams.
With 10 players leaving the league and new wildcard spots, there are 12 roster changes overall.
Cleeks Golf Club: Martin Kaymer, Richard Bland, Adrian Meronk, Victor Perez (new for Frederik Kjettrup)
4 Aces GC: Dustin Johnson, Thomas Detry, Thomas Pieters – Patrick Reed leaves 4 Aces GC and returns to the PGA Tour.