Confirmed: LIV Golf announce rule change to feeder tour

LIV Golf have confirmed the leading two players in the International Series will be exempt on the breakaway tour in 2026. 

The 10-event series, played under the banner of the Asian Tour, has offered the order of merit winner a golden ticket to LIV Golf since 2022. 

Zimbabwe's Scott Vincent and America's Andy Ogletree previously made their way to the PIF-backed league via this pathway, although both have now been relegated. 

Joaquin Niemann topped the International Series standings in 2024, but was already a LIV Golf player. 

Last week, the South China Morning Post reported LIV officials were thinking of making the change but it has now been made official. 

It is thought the move will help bolster LIV's bid for world ranking accreditation. 

There are just two events remaining in the International Series and the aforementioned Vincent leads the way. Miguel Tabuena is currently second.

The International Series heads to Singapore next week before the grand finale in Saudi Arabia at the end of the month. 

Cho Minn Thant, the commissioner and chief executive of the Asian Tour, said: "This is an extremely positive development for our members and firmly cements our partnership with LIV Golf.

"The extra spot is a phenomenal opportunity for our members to rise to one of the pinnacle platforms in our game and there is no doubt that the top two positions will be fiercely contested over the next two events."

LIV Golf will begin their fourth full season next February in Saudi Arabia. 

Spain's Jon Rahm is the reigning champion, having won the season-long points race for the second consecutive year. 

LIV are currently negotiating the extension of several players' contracts. 

Dustin Johnson's deal reportedly expires this winter but is understood to have agreed to stay on as the 4 Aces captain, according to FlushingIt. 

Bryson DeChambeau (pictured) is also keen on extending his stay with LIV beyond 2026. 

The 2024 US Open champion has become the face of LIV Golf and has seen his popularity soar since leaving the PGA Tour.