What's Happening?
The LIV Golf team championship event is set to return to The Cardinal at Saint John's Resort in Plymouth Township, Michigan, in 2026. Scheduled for August 27-30, the Aramco LIV Golf Michigan Team Championship
will once again be hosted in suburban Detroit. The event is a significant part of the LIV Golf League, emphasizing team competition. Ross Hallett, LIV Golf's executive vice president and head of events, expressed enthusiasm about returning to Michigan, highlighting the successful hosting of the previous season's finale. The 2025 championship saw Jon Rahm's team, Legion XIII, triumph over Bryson DeChambeau's Crushers GC in a playoff, with each member of the winning team earning $1.4 million. The 2026 LIV Golf schedule will commence in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in February, with a shift from a 54-hole to a 72-hole format.
Why It's Important?
The return of the LIV Golf team championship to Michigan underscores the growing popularity and influence of the LIV Golf League in the U.S. sports landscape. This event not only brings significant economic benefits to the local area through tourism and hospitality but also enhances the visibility of golf as a team sport. The involvement of high-profile players like Jon Rahm and Bryson DeChambeau adds prestige to the event, attracting media attention and sponsorships. The shift to a 72-hole format aligns LIV Golf more closely with traditional golf tournaments, potentially broadening its appeal to purists and expanding its audience base.
What's Next?
As the 2026 season approaches, stakeholders, including local businesses and tourism boards, are likely to prepare for the influx of visitors and media attention. The event's success could influence future decisions regarding the location and format of LIV Golf tournaments. Additionally, the league's expansion and format changes may prompt reactions from traditional golf organizations, potentially leading to collaborations or competitive adjustments.
