Ian Poulter confirms LIV Golf exit as proposed 2027 relaunch takes shape

Ian Poulter has confirmed he is leaving LIV Golf and will not take part in its proposed next phase, choosing instead to devote more time to his family, senior competition and other projects. The 50-year-old Englishman announced the decision on Friday after discussing his future with his family and team.

Watch the highlights:

In his statement, reproduced by Golf Monthly, Poulter explained that less international travel and more time at home were central to his decision. His plans include developing The Postman YouTube channel and supporting his sons' golf ambitions. Luke is pursuing a professional career, while Joshua is still developing his game as a teenager.

Poulter also reflected on his contribution to LIV's early years. He said he remained proud of helping build Majesticks GC, bringing the sport to different audiences and supporting the Little Sticks community programme. He thanked teammates, staff, partners and supporters, while acknowledging the disagreements that have surrounded the league. His plans to enter senior events mean the departure is not an announcement of retirement from competitive golf.

BBC Sport reported that Poulter joined LIV when it launched in 2022 and co-captained Majesticks alongside Lee Westwood. His announcement follows departures by Jon Rahm and Louis Oosthuizen, adding to the changes facing the circuit as it attempts to organise a new competition for 2027. Westwood's next steps remain unclear, according to the BBC report.

The proposed relaunch remains conditional rather than assured. According to BBC Sport, Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund ended its backing in April, and LIV filed for bankruptcy protection in the United States in September. The league has secured potential financing of $300 million from BC Partners Credit, but only a small number of players have committed to the proposed next phase.

BBC Sport identified Richard Bland, Cameron Tringale and Brendan Steele among those who have committed to continue. Poulter has now made the opposite choice, ending his involvement after four seasons. For the league, his confirmed exit leaves another established team leader outside its plans as it seeks to assemble a field for the proposed 2027 competition.