Former Open Champion Henrik Stenson plans a return to the DP World Tour in 2026 after being relegated from the LIV Golf League. Find out why Stenson is heading back to the DP World Tour after paying fines exceeding £1m following his LIV Golf departure.
This video breaks down Stenson’s decision to rejoin the DP World Tour, his underwhelming LIV campaign, and the implications of LIV Golf’s relegation system. We also explore Laurie Canter’s successful return to the PGA Tour, highlighting the evolving landscape of professional golf.
Golf’s loyalty drama unfolds. Henrik Stenson’s surprising move after LIIV relegation. In a surprising twist, golf legend Henrik Stenson is plotting his comeback to the DP World Tour in 2026, just 3 years after his high-profile departure to the LIV Golf League. But here’s the catch. He’s returning after being relegated from the very league he joined with much fanfare. The Swedish golfer, now 49, has reportedly paid over1 million pounds in fines to the European circuit for participating in conflicting LIIV events, according to Bunkett. This decision comes after a disappointing 2022 LIIV campaign, where he finished 49th in the individual standings, falling into the dreaded drop zone. Stenson’s initial move to the Saudibacked LIIV Golf League in 2023 was a bold one, but it cost him the prestigious role of Europe’s RDER Cup captain for the Rome match. The LIV circuit with its 56 player roster is implementing relegation as it seeks recognition from the official World Golf ranking, a move that could aid its players entry into major championships. Interestingly, Stenson seems to be opting for a return to the DP World Tour rather than fighting for a spot on the main LIIV circuit. He reflects on the ups and downs of a professional sports career, stating, “You’re going to have good years. You’re going to have bad years.” Stenson’s resignation from the DP World Tour in 2023 following in the footsteps of fellow LIV defectors PA Garcia Westward and Bland was a consequence of sanctions for rule breaches during his LIIV transition. The tour imposed hefty fines and bans for each tournament regulation violation. In a separate development, England’s Lorie Caner has made history as the first golfer to regain PGA Tour eligibility postiv defection thanks to an impressive season on the DP World Tour. And this is where it gets intriguing. Will Stenson’s return to the DP World Tour spark a trend among golfers who’ve experienced the highs and lows of the LIV League? Only time will tell. What do you think about golfers switching tours and the potential impact on the sport’s future?
