Premier Golf League Tweaks A Few Details, Answers Questions
/The Premier Golf League has returned to the disruptor discussion carrying essentially the same proposal as before, with three noticeable and significant changes.
Whether those tweaks to the plan—now six years in the making—change perceptions, we’ll see. Given how players could not rule out the Golf Saudi rip-off of the PGL’s concept, there is a perception that minds have been opened to a PGA Tour/European Tour alternative.
In this case, the money is no longer from the Kingdom and the schedule involves far less of a Middle East-focus. That would seemingly sway a few fence-sitters.
Here is the FAQ page of their website updated today.
From what I’m reading, the format remains essentially the same: 18 weeks, 12 targeted for the United States, built around majors and Ryder Cup, 54-hole stroke play with the shotgun start and five hour window (that’s a nice way of letting people know they want to tighten the days for everyone). Each week four players from each franchise play with a captain designating two who will count toward a season long race.
The first big format change: a 13th team owned by the league with players voted on by fans. This introduces a way to work in a budding young player or local legend or any number of possibilities. I’m not sure it’s enough to answer the question of how this league develops and welcomes new talent, but it’s a fascinating twist.
It’s about truly engaging the fans and getting them involved. Three wild cards picked by fans each week. Legends, rising stars, local favourites, men and women. That’s up to 51 additional players with a chance to win each season. The 13th team will be owned by our foundation and add an extra dimension to the League. We can’t wait to see who the fans will select?
The other huge change: team owners now will not be relegated to players at the outset. From the FAQ:
We’ll be announcing our team owners soon. Team golf is nothing new, but this extraordinary opportunity is. Think about the unrivalled access, unparalleled experiences, unimaginable fun, at 18 unforgettable events every year. The opportunity to help change the game for the better, just as the greats did 50 years ago. A chance to make history, as well as a great return on investment.
You can expect to see a heady mix of global stars (not just golfers) and high-profile globally representative individuals from the world of business.
Finally, their statement on backers:
We have an incredible shareholder base that loves golf and is providing the required backing. But it’s not just about the money. You could have all the money in the world and still not get this right. It’s about being fair, inclusive and rewarding. It’s also about creating the right ownership structure and sharing with those who make up golf’s community.
