Golf's LIV Golf Tour is set to welcome back a familiar face as it prepares for the 2026 season. According to a recent report, Sergio Garcia, a former Masters champion, is set to reunite with Luis Masaveu, a former teammate on the LIV Golf circuit. The deal would see Abraham Ancer move to Joaquin Niemann's Torque GC, replacing the relegated Mito Pereira.
Masaveu, who joined Garcia's Fireballs team in January, was replaced mid-season by Josele Ballester, the reigning US Amateur champion. Ballester secured his first professional win at the PIF Saudi International over the weekend. The reason for Masaveu's departure remains unclear, but it's noted that he had a 'half-season contract'.
With this trade, Garcia's team will consist of four Spanish players, including the highly-rated David Puig. This move comes amidst rumors of LIV Golf's plans to add new teams and rebrand existing ones for the 2026 season. LIV Golf Inc has filed for trademark names like Becko East GC, Southern Balindi GC, and Real Club De Toros GC, with the latter reportedly linked to Garcia's team.
If approved, LIV Golf's team count will rise to 15, plus two wildcard players. This expansion aims to boost LIV Golf's credibility in global rankings. Additionally, LIV Golf has shifted from a 54-hole format to four-day events, aligning with established tours.
Despite these changes, LIV Golf's roster for 2026 remains limited. Victor Perez, a three-time DP World Tour winner, has joined Martin Kaymer's side, while there are speculations about Laurie Canter's potential return to LIV Golf after considering the PGA Tour. The tour's recent developments have also seen Dustin Johnson, a two-time major winner, endure his first winless season since 2014, raising questions about the future of LIV Golf's star players.
