Mzansi Welcomes The World: LIV Golf Set To Make African Debut In South Africa In 2026

Forbes

a day ago

LIV Golf is expanding its global footprint once again, this time with a historic first. In March 2026, the LIV Golf League will make its debut on African soil, with Johannesburg's Steyn City set to host the event from 20 to 22 March.
This marks a significant moment not only for South Africa but for the entire African continent, as LIV continues to grow its international presence. Known for blending professional golf with entertainment, music, and lifestyle experiences, LIV Golf's arrival signals another bold step for the league's evolving identity and ambition.
A Festival of Golf and Culture
As with other LIV events, this tournament will be about more than just competition. Organisers have promised a high-energy experience that fuses sport and culture, what they call a 'festival of golf and life.'
Fans can expect live music performances, immersive fan zones, and family-friendly access, including free entry for children under 12. Enthusiasm is already high: the first 10,000 tickets sold out within 24 hours, setting a LIV Golf record, and more than 25,000 tickets have already been claimed in advance of the event.
The South Africa tournament will form part of LIV's broader 2026 calendar, which includes events in Australia, Singapore, Mexico, and the United Kingdom.
A Venue Built for the Moment
The 2026 edition will take place at The Club at Steyn City, a championship course designed by Nicklaus Design. Situated in Midrand between Johannesburg and Pretoria, the venue offers a scenic but demanding 7,700-yard, par-72 layout, surrounded by indigenous bushland and home to wildlife including impalas and porcupines.
For LIV, the location offers a striking blend of modern luxury and natural African beauty, an ideal setting for a global tournament seeking to deliver both sporting drama and visual spectacle.
LIV Golf has signed a multi-year agreement to stage events in South Africa, while Steyn City's deal is for one year, with options to extend.
Spotlight on Home Talent
South Africa's Stinger GC is expected to be a major drawcard for local fans. The team is captained by 2010 Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen, joined by fellow countrymen Charl Schwartzel, Branden Grace, and Dean Burmester, all of whom have had success on both traditional and LIV circuits. For Stinger GC, the chance to perform on familiar turf could provide a competitive edge and an emotional boost as they compete against LIV's international field.
Global Stars on Display
The South Africa tournament will feature a lineup of 54 top players from around the world, including major champions such as Brooks Koepka, Jon Rahm, Bryson DeChambeau, Dustin Johnson, Phil Mickelson, and Cameron Smith.
The presence of these names reinforces LIV's goal to deliver a premium golf product while appealing to a new, broader generation of fans.
Economic and Tourism Upside
LIV Golf events have consistently demonstrated their ability to generate substantial economic impact in host cities. In 2025, LIV Golf Adelaide produced a total economic impact of $78.5 million USD, according to an independent study by Vision Insights.
Key stats from that event included:
South African tourism and hospitality sectors will be watching closely, with expectations that the 2026 event could deliver similar, if not greater, returns, particularly given Johannesburg's position as a regional hub for business and travel.
Community-Focused Legacy
Beyond entertainment and economic growth, the 2026 LIV Golf event also aims to leave a social legacy. The tournament will support the Steyn City Foundation's feeding schemes, providing resources for community programs long after the final putt drops.
This aligns with LIV's growing emphasis on social investment, sustainability, and charitable partnerships as it continues to scale its global presence.
A Strategic Step for the Continent
South Africa has long been a destination for major international sporting events, from football and rugby to cricket and athletics. The inclusion of LIV Golf on this list marks a milestone not only for the sport in the region but for Africa's place on the global golf map.
As the first African stop on the LIV calendar, the 2026 tournament could serve as a springboard for future events across the continent. For LIV Golf, it represents an important test case, one that may influence its future expansion strategy in emerging markets.
As March 2026 approaches, the spotlight will turn to Johannesburg, Steyn City, and the players ready to make history. Whether for fans, athletes, or the host nation, LIV Golf South Africa promises to be a landmark moment in a sport that's redefining its global reach.