The United States government has demanded urgent talks with LIV Golf officials amid growing fears the Saudi-backed league could be nearing collapse.<\/p>\n
Louisiana officials have reached out directly to LIV executives following a wave of reports questioning the circuit\u2019s long-term future, with concerns mounting over its financial backing.<\/p>\n
At the centre of the issue is LIV Golf\u2019s planned debut event in New Orleans, scheduled from 25-28 June at Bayou Oaks Golf Course.<\/p>\n
State officials are now seeking immediate reassurance that the tournament will go ahead as planned.<\/p>\n
In an email sent to LIV Golf, Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois made the state\u2019s position clear.<\/p>\n
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\u201cNeedless to say, we are concerned about the reports this week,\u201d Bourgeois said. \u201cThey are in Mexico, but I have said, by Monday, we need to have a candid conversation about where this stands.\u201d<\/p>\n
A spokesperson for Governor Jeff Landry added: \u201cSo far, we have not been notified of anything as far as LIV folding or pulling out.\u201d<\/p>\n
The urgency is heightened by Louisiana\u2019s financial commitment to the event.<\/p>\n
A $7.2 million incentive package was agreed to bring LIV Golf to New Orleans, including a $5 million hosting fee and $2.2 million in course upgrades.<\/p>\n
However, state officials have confirmed protections are in place should the event not take place.<\/p>\n
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\u201cWe have a claw back provision should they falter,\u201d said Senate President Cameron Henry.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cIf they should close, we can ask for our money back.\u201d<\/p>\n
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The government\u2019s intervention comes amid increasing speculation about LIV Golf\u2019s financial stability and long-term outlook.<\/p>\n
Reports have suggested the league could make a \u201cseismic\u201d announcement in the coming months, with questions raised over whether Saudi Arabia\u2019s Public Investment Fund will continue its backing.<\/p>\n
LIV Golf CEO Scott O\u2019Neil has publicly insisted the current season will \u201ccontinue exactly as planned\u201d<\/a> and that funding is secured through to its conclusion.<\/p>\n Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT<\/p>\n Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT<\/p>\n