Blumenthal warns of ‘real risk’ in PGA and LIV merger, vows to investigate.

Senate Investigates Proposed Merger Between PGA Tour and LIV Golf

Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) expressed concerns about the proposed merger between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf, emphasizing the “real risk” associated with the agreement. Speaking on CBS News’s Face the Nation on Sunday, Blumenthal discussed the Senate’s investigation into the deal.

“The permanent subcommittee on investigations, that I chair, is essentially trying to uncover the facts about what went into this deal, who was behind it, and whether there was any improper conduct or wrongdoing and what the structure and governance will be of the entity going forward. There are very, very few details,” Blumenthal explained.

The agreement, announced earlier this month, will create a new for-profit entity that combines the commercial businesses of the PGA Tour, DP World Tour, and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund. The PGA Tour Inc., a tax-exempt organization, will continue to oversee events for the assets contributed by the PGA TOUR.

Blumenthal accused the Saudi government of using sport investment as a means to improve its public image, a practice commonly referred to as “sports-washing.” He raised concerns about the Saudi government’s alleged involvement in various activities, including the killing of Jamal Khashoggi, torture and imprisonment of dissidents, and support for anti-democratic and terrorist activities.

“Remember, what we have here is essentially a repressive, autocratic foreign government, taking control over an iconic, cherished, American institution, for the clear purpose of cleansing its public image. The Saudis have been very explicit that they have an objective here,” Blumenthal stated.

Blumenthal emphasized the potential national security implications of the deal and mentioned the possibility of subpoenas and a hearing in the coming weeks. He also highlighted the economic impact of the PGA Tour events on local economies.

“I think there are national security implications to this deal. Anytime there is foreign influence by a repressive regime over a central American institution, there is a security risk. And remember, this institution plays a central role in our society, the players are ambassadors and role models, and there are economic implications, the Travelers tournament beginning this week is going to have an economic impact on local economies in Connecticut in the tens of millions of dollars,” Blumenthal added.

The Justice Department is reportedly scrutinizing the merger, but they have declined to comment on whether an investigation has been opened.

LIV Golf, backed by Saudi Arabia, has made significant investments in sports. The PGA Tour’s decision to merge with LIV Golf was influenced by the latter’s substantial financial resources.

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