LIV Golf Stars Give DP World Tour a Major Setback After Court’s Verdict

The DP World Tour officials were adamant about the ban and fine they charged 16 of its players for playing in the first LIV Golf event. However, they wouldn’t be able to ban the players from playing in its events anymore as the court of Britain’s released a verdict in the favor of the players. 

Ian Poulter, Adrian Otaegui, and Justin Harding won the legal battle against the Tour for the time being. They acquired an injunction from the International Dispute Resolution Centre against the suspension orders they got from the Tour. Thereby, the three will be able to be a part of the Genesis Scottish Open field held at The Renaissance. 

16 players from DP World Tour had played in the inaugural event of the Saudi-backed league in London without the Tour’s permission. As a result, the Tour officials banned them from the upcoming three tournaments, including the Scottish Open. Furthermore, they also levied an additional £100,000 as a fine on the league players. 

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Notably, the players had sent a letter to the European Tour CEO, Keith Pelley, expressing their grievances about the punishments they received. Furthermore, the players had warned the Tour that they would otherwise be seeking a court’s help. However, the CEO outright rejected the letter and proceeded with his decision. 

The DP World Tour CEO on the verdict in favor of LIV Golf players

“I will simply say we are disappointed by the outcome of today’s hearing but will abide by the decision.” Keith Pelley talked to the media during the JP MacManus Pro-Am, expressing his disappointment in the news. 

“It is important to remember, however, this is only a stay of the sanctions imposed,” he added. “Pending the hearing of the players’ appeal as to whether those sanctions were appropriate.” 

The CEO didn’t comment on the stay order from the court further as he was at the Pro-Am event. He explained that he didn’t want to disrespect the fundraising event for charities of Ireland and its sponsors. 

As the DP World Tour mentioned, the three players have only received a stay from the International Dispute Resolution Centre. However, the stay can help Poulter and others to play in the Genesis Scottish Open. With their addition, The Renaissance field has increased from the already decided 156 players. 

The victorious LIV Golf players have gained the stay order for their suspension. What do you think about the news? Do you agree that they should be allowed to play in the Tour events?

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