It is a done deal.
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PGA and LIV Merge
The PGA Tour and Saudi-backed LIV Golf announced a proposed merger yesterday, ending their rivalry on the global golfing stage.
Under the agreement, the golf-related commercial businesses and rights of LIV Golf’s main financial supporter, the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia, will combine with those of the PGA Tour and the European-based DP World Tour, establishing a collectively owned, for-profit entity. The tours will continue to run independently but will have board oversight, primarily controlled by the PGA. The PIF, which will occupy a chairman position with the new entity, will provide the initial funding and have the right to invest—and refuse outside investment—in the entity.
The news comes nearly a year after LIV Golf debuted as a professional golf series, facing criticism for attempting to “sportswash” the country’s image in light of its human rights record. The merger will resolve any ongoing legal disputes and establish a process for LIV players, including stars Phil Mickelson and Dustin Johnson, to reapply for membership in the PGA Tour and DP World Tour after the 2023 season.
The merger awaits approval from the PGA Tour policy board and is expected to be finalized this year. See player reactions here.
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I’m not sure if this will wash the image of who really is behind the “public investment fund of Saudi Arabia”.
Changing the name of the soup while keeping all the ingredients is not going to change the taste.
It will be very interesting to see what happens in the next 3-5 years as it develops after someone got their foot in the door.
All the supposed safeguards measurement set forth today could be overcome gradually.
A white wash, a money laundering, a scheme to cover up. How would a none-profit organization mixes with for profit business? Not only just on the books but morally and principles.
Someone did not think this through.
The luster of the PGA Tour and the PGA have certainly faded for this golfer.
I’ll be just plugging along with my recreational game and forget about the noise they had created. not interested even viewing the broadcasting for the majors.
A bunch of idiots.