Credited from: FORBES
LIV Golf has announced a significant multiyear media rights deal with Fox Sports, starting next month. The multi-year agreement, finalized on January 16, indicates a major step for the Saudi-backed league, which has sought to elevate its presence in the competitive sports broadcasting market. Fox Sports will air nearly all LIV tournament play across its channels including Fox and FS1, along with its streaming services.
Fox's partnership with LIV Golf comes as the league prepares to launch its 2025 season, kicking off in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and is expected to reach a broader audience. Scott O'Neil, who recently took over as the CEO of LIV Golf, stated, “This relationship signals the next phase of growth as our league joins the company of the nation’s premier sports leagues,” emphasizing the league's ambition to redefine golf viewing experiences.
Previously, LIV Golf's competitions were aired on the CW Network, but ratings indicated limited success, prompting the shift to Fox. The deal shifts the production responsibility to LIV Golf itself, which allows it to showcase a more tailored approach to broadcasting compared to other leagues, such as the PGA Tour.
In terms of financial details, while specific figures of the deal were not disclosed, reports suggest that Fox's fee to LIV Golf may be modest compared to other leagues, leading some analysts to consider this a strategic entry into the golf broadcasting realm.
Trump's historical connection to LIV Golf adds further intrigue to the league's potential. Discussions regarding a possible merger between LIV and the PGA Tour continue, but nothing has been officially announced since their unexpected collaboration announcement in 2023. The golf world is watching closely as LIV aims to align itself more prominently in mainstream channels through its new partnership with Fox.
This broadcasting venture, starting with live coverage of competitions, highlights the evolving landscape of sports media and LIV's strategic positioning within it. For further details on this development, visit Forbes.