BC Partners dropping bid to launch LIV 2.0, according to report
Michael Miller/ISI Photos
It appears LIV 2.0 is over before it started.
BC Partners is dropping its bid to relaunch LIV Golf, according to the Financial Times. That leaves LIV likely looking to liquidate its remaining assets after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in September.
BC Partners, a private capital firm, had pledged as much as $300 million to keep a new version of the league going. However, after delaying a player commitment deadline, multiple reports say there weren't enough golfers to satisfy the company to move forward with the investment.
The Financial Times previously had reported that as many as 15 players had agreed to stay on. However, only four, Cameron Tringale, Richard Bland, Ben Campbell and Brendan Steele, had been confirmed. The DP World Tour announcing that it would not allow LIV players to also hold membership on its tour in 2027 made it a tougher sell for those thinking of continuing with the league.
LIV's future had been uncertain since April, when it lost the financial backing of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. The PIF had reportedly invested an estimated $5 billion-plus into the league since it launched in 2022.
Under the proposed restructuring, BC Partners would have financed an attempted LIV return in 2027 through what the league described as a “recapitalization transaction.” BC Partners has ties to GSE Worldwide, the agency representing a sizable portion of LIV’s roster. But Jon Rahm, Tyrrell Hatton and others opted out and others remained noncommittal. Bryson DeChambeau had previously stated his want to stay with LIV, but had been publicly quiet over the past month, leaving LIV a league without a roster.
LIV’s financial troubles have extended beyond its players. Several contractors say they have not been paid for their work, while the league also faces a lawsuit from the Premier Golf League alleging breach of confidence and conspiracy by unlawful means.
Golf Digest has reached out to LIV for comment, but has not heard back.
Editor's Note: This is a developing story. Check back for further updates.