LIV Golf, the Saudi-funded circuit that keeps finding new ways to make headlines for reasons other than great golf, has postponed its June event in New Orleans. Louisiana officials confirmed the news on Tuesday, less than two weeks after LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil insisted the 2026 season was full steam ahead amid reports the series might be running on fumes.
The postponement comes a day after sources said the event might be delayed because the FIFA World Cup could steal its thunder - or, you know, its audience. High temperatures and course conditions were also cited, because apparently golf in Louisiana in late June is like playing on the surface of the sun.
Governor Jeff Landry and Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois revealed in a joint statement that the state had already shelled out $3.2 million under its contract with LIV Golf. Of that, $2 million has been sunk into upgrades for Bayou Oaks at City Park, the course that was supposed to host the event from 25-28 June. The remaining $1.2 million in state incentive funds? LIV Golf is expected to return it, presumably with a polite note attached.
“We appreciate LIV’s good-faith efforts and look forward to maintaining our partnership as we continue conversations around an event later this year,” Landry and Bourgeois said, which is diplomatic for “please give us our money back and maybe call us when you figure things out.”
According to the statement, Bourgeois spoke with O’Neil last Friday, and he informed her the organization was looking to postpone the New Orleans tournament to explore a potential autumn event. LIV Golf, in its own statement, called it a “strategic” decision to avoid “peak summer heat and the crowded global sports calendar while ensuring the course is in the championship condition our fans and players expect.” In other words, they’re blaming the weather and the World Cup, not the fact that their business model might be on shaky ground.
“We are grateful for the continued partnership and flexibility of the state of Louisiana as we work together to deliver a world-class debut this fall,” LIV Golf said, adding, “Our team is focused on maintaining the strong momentum of the 2026 season and we look forward to sharing finalized dates in the near future.” Because nothing says “momentum” like postponing events and returning incentive money.