LIV Golf’s New Broadcast Deal with Fox Sports: A Game Changer?
In a significant move that could reshape the landscape of golf broadcasting, LIV Golf has inked a multiyear broadcast agreement with Fox Sports. This deal will see each of the three rounds of LIV Golf events broadcast live in the U.S. on one of Fox’s network channels and its streaming app starting this season. This is a major step for LIV Golf as it seeks to expand its reach and influence in the world of professional golf.
Announced on Thursday, the agreement specifies that more than half of LIV Golf’s 14 tournaments will air live on Fox or FS1. Select rounds will also be broadcast on FS2, Fox Business Network, or the Fox Sports App. Importantly, every round will be available for streaming on the Fox Sports App and LIV Golf+, according to the circuit.
While the financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, there is speculation about whether Fox Sports will pay a rights fee to the Saudi Arabian-financed tour. This aspect of the deal has piqued the interest of many in the sports industry, as it could set a precedent for future broadcasting agreements.
Scott O’Neil, the newly appointed CEO of LIV Golf, expressed his excitement about the partnership in a statement: “We are thrilled to partner with FOX Sports, one of the preeminent broadcast networks in the world. LIV Golf is getting bigger and bolder, and this relationship signals the next phase of growth as our league joins the company of the nation’s premier sports leagues and conferences.”
O’Neil further emphasized the innovative approach of LIV Golf, stating, “I want to thank the FOX Sports team who share our vision for the future of golf, a new model that is redefining how the sport is experienced. LIV Golf is drawing a younger, more active and tech-savvy fan base, and as our players and teams prepare for LIV Golf’s biggest season yet, this agreement will take our broadcast to new heights.”
O’Neil, who previously held a top executive position at Merlin Entertainments, was officially named LIV Golf’s new CEO on Wednesday. The circuit also announced that former CEO and commissioner Greg Norman will be stepping back from day-to-day operations but will remain involved in an undisclosed capacity.
The upcoming third season of LIV Golf is set to kick off on February 6-8 at the Riyadh Golf Club in Saudi Arabia. This will be followed by tournaments in Australia (February 14-16), Hong Kong (March 7-9), and Singapore (March 14-16). The first LIV Golf tournament in the U.S. is scheduled to take place at Trump National Doral Golf Club in Miami from April 4-6, just a week before the Masters.
This new deal with Fox Sports is expected to significantly boost LIV Golf’s exposure in the U.S., especially after struggling to gain viewership in its first two seasons on The CW network. According to Golfweek, fewer than 100,000 people tuned in to watch Jon Rahm win the 2024 individual championship, highlighting the need for a more robust broadcasting platform.
Jordan Bazant, a Fox Sports executive vice president, shared his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “FOX Sports is excited to broadcast the LIV Golf League, showcasing athletes at the top of their game competing at an elite level for viewers across the nation. The addition of LIV Golf is a natural fit for FOX Sports’ prominent slate of big events, world-class names and premium sports coverage.”
- LIV Golf’s new broadcast deal with Fox Sports marks a pivotal moment in its quest for greater visibility and influence.
- The partnership promises to bring a fresh and dynamic approach to golf broadcasting, appealing to a younger, tech-savvy audience.
- With tournaments scheduled across the globe, LIV Golf is poised for its most ambitious season yet.
As LIV Golf embarks on this new chapter, the sports world will be watching closely to see how this partnership with Fox Sports unfolds and what it means for the future of golf broadcasting.
Originally Written by: Mark Schlabach
