Changes atop the LIV Golf executive structure continue to emerge as the league prepares for its third full season.
After officially ousting former CEO Greg Norman for Scott O’Neil last week, LIV Golf and Chief Media Officer Will Staeger have mutually parted ways, according to a report by Josh Carpenter in Sports Business Journal.
Staeger, who had been with LIV since its inception, was instrumental in crafting the league’s first television deal with The CW. While widely panned for its ratings, the agreement helped LIV secure much-needed exposure in the United States, and in many ways put The CW on the map as a live sports broadcaster.
In a statement sent to SBJ, Staeger said, “I’m looking forward to pursuing some exciting entertainment ventures of my own after what has been a career defining and inspiring partnership with LIV Golf. Not only am I grateful and proud to have been a part of the iconic launch and growth of LIV, but I will forever be rooting for LIV’s continued groundbreaking and innovative success from the other side of the ropes.”
A LIV spokesperson reciprocated that sentiment in a statement saying, “We’re incredibly grateful for Will’s contributions to building the league’s broadcast and LIV Studios model and wish him all the best in his next chapter.”
Staeger is a longtime executive in the sports media space, having most recently served as EVP, On Location at Endeavor before taking a leading role at LIV.
The departure comes just over a week after LIV officially announced its new media rights agreement with Fox Sports — a deal in which tournaments will air across Fox, FS1, FS2, and Fox Business.
The league begins its season on February 6th in Riyadh, a tournament that will be played under the lights to accommodate its new media partner.
About Drew Lerner
Drew Lerner is a staff writer for Awful Announcing and an aspiring cable subscriber. He previously covered sports media for Sports Media Watch. Future beat writer for the Oasis reunion tour.