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LIV Golf chief executive Scott O'Neil has acknowledged that the rebel golf tour's finances are being managed very tightly and that structural changes are on the horizon, which may necessitate raising additional funds. However, he emphatically stated that the league will not fold.O'Neil's comments come on the heels of reports that Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, a key backer of LIV Golf, is cutting its funding for the league. Despite this, O'Neil described the situation as 'business as usual' and expressed confidence in the tour's future prospects.In an interview with LIV employees during the broadcast of the tour's Mexico City event, O'Neil hinted at upcoming structural changes but did not provide specifics. He suggested that these changes could involve new formats or business structures, possibly including team-based elements.O'Neil also downplayed speculation about the tour's financial health, stating that LIV Golf had secured almost $500 million in sponsorships last year from major brands like Rolex, HSBC, and Aramco. He emphasized the tour's global appeal, particularly in markets such as Australia and Asia, where it has attracted significant interest.While acknowledging that fundraising may be necessary, O'Neil expressed optimism about the tour's trajectory, suggesting that continued revenue growth could mitigate the need for external funding. He concluded by stating that LIV Golf is poised for long-term success and will continue to evolve in the coming months.

Renewed diplomatic activity is gathering momentum as Pakistan assumes a central mediating role in the stalled US‑Iran conflict. A senior Pakistani delegation, headed by Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, arrived in Tehran to convey messages from Washington, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif embarked on a regional tour that includes stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkiye. Iran’s foreign ministry confirmed that Tehran and Washington have maintained contact since the Islamabad talks ended on Sunday, and the White House expressed optimism about convening a second round of peace negotiations in the Pakistani capital. Iran’s warning on the Strait of Hormuz added a sharp edge to the diplomatic push. Adviser Mohsen Rezaei cautioned that continued US enforcement of a naval blockade could prompt Tehran to target American vessels in the strategic waterway. The United States has already tightened restrictions on ships linked to Iranian ports, turning several vessels back before they can dock. In parallel, internal divisions in Washington persisted. The Senate rejected a resolution that would have limited US war powers without congressional approval, underscoring the political friction surrounding the conflict. Key diplomatic developments include: Second‑round talks: The White House announced that a follow‑up peace round with Iran is under discussion and that officials are hopeful a deal can be reached. China’s endorsement: Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Iranian counterpart that Beijing supports maintaining the momentum of the ceasefire and ongoing negotiations. Saudi‑Pakistani engagement: Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met Prime Minister Sharif in Jeddah to discuss regional stability and the US‑Iran dialogue, with Pakistan’s mediation highlighted as a focal point. US‑Qatar dialogue: President Donald Trump consulted with Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani on regional developments, emphasizing oil market stability and gas pricing. On the US side, the administration imposed fresh sanctions targeting more than two dozen individuals, companies and vessels tied to Iranian oil magnate Mohammad Hossein Shamkhani. The US Central Command reported that 10 vessels were blocked from leaving Iranian ports within the first 48 hours of the naval blockade, a clear signal of escalating pressure. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israel and the United States share “identical” objectives to contain Iran, while also stating that Israeli military operations would continue unabated. He emphasized the priority of dismantling Hezbollah in Lebanon, marking the first direct talks with Lebanese leaders in decades. In Lebanon, the humanitarian toll deepened. The Health Ministry reported that at least 2,167 people have been killed and more than 7,000 injured by Israeli strikes, with approximately 1.2 million residents displaced since March 2. The UN special rapporteur on housing warned that Israel’s tactics mirror those used in Gaza, calling for an immediate halt to the bombing. Economically, the war’s ripple effects are already manifesting worldwide. World Bank chief economist Indermit Gill warned that the conflict could push the number of people facing acute food insecurity up by about 20 %, adding roughly 300 million individuals to the crisis. Meanwhile, optimism over a potential diplomatic breakthrough sent major US stock indices to record highs on Wednesday. Overall, the convergence of high‑level diplomatic outreach, heightened military warnings, and growing economic concerns underscores a pivotal moment in the US‑Iran war, with Pakistan’s mediation and regional engagements shaping the prospects for a ceasefire.

Pakistani officials have expressed confidence that a significant diplomatic breakthrough could emerge from the latest round of U.S.–Iran negotiations, with Islamabad intensifying its role as mediator in a conflict that has already claimed thousands of lives. On Wednesday, a senior Pakistani delegation led by Army Chief Asim Munir landed in Tehran to deliver a message from Washington to Iranian leaders, according to Iran’s Press TV. The envoy was welcomed by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who thanked Pakistan for its "gracious hosting of dialogue" and indicated that groundwork is being laid for a second U.S.–Iran round of talks. Al Jazeera analyst Osama Bin Javaid noted that Pakistani officials anticipate a "major breakthrough on the nuclear front," with messages shuttling continuously between the two capitals. The core dispute centers on the length of any Iranian enrichment freeze—ranging from a proposed five‑year to a twenty‑year moratorium—and the disposition of Iran’s 440 kilograms of highly enriched uranium. Options under discussion include exporting the material, diluting it to natural uranium, or reducing enrichment to a maximum of 3 %. Pakistan’s diplomatic push follows a stalled U.S.–Iran session in Islamabad that ended without a cease‑fire agreement. Mediators are now concentrating on three pivotal issues: the nuclear programme, control of the strategic Strait of Hormuz—which Tehran has effectively closed, driving up global oil prices—and compensation for wartime damages. The conflict, ignited by the United States and Israel on 28 February, has resulted in more than 3,000 Iranian deaths and prompted retaliatory strikes against Gulf states. It has also reignited hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, where over 2,000 casualties have been reported since early March. A cease‑fire declared on 8 April halted attacks in Iran and the Gulf, yet Israeli operations in southern Lebanon have persisted. Simultaneously, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif embarked on a regional tour to Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey, a move described by Bin Javaid as a "double‑pronged strategy" aimed at neutralising opposition to a potential deal. According to the White House, President Donald Trump signalled optimism on Tuesday, suggesting the war could conclude within "an amazing two days" and that it is "very close to over." Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later described the Pakistan‑facilitated talks as "productive and ongoing," adding that further negotiations are likely to take place in Islamabad. Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that message exchanges with the United States have continued via Pakistani channels, with spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei stating that Tehran’s positions have been communicated. Nevertheless, tensions linger. A U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz remains active; U.S. Central Command reported turning back nine vessels as of Wednesday. Iran’s military denounced the blockade as a breach of the cease‑fire, and the Iranian joint command chief, Ali Abdollahi, warned of possible retaliation by disrupting trade routes through the Red Sea, the Gulf and the Sea of Oman if the blockade persists.

The sports world is reeling from the news that Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) is pulling back its financial support for LIV Golf, a rebel tour that has been a key vehicle for the kingdom's ambitious attempts to become a leading global sports destination.Conservatively estimated to have cost Saudi Arabia over $10bn in the past five years, the slowdown in lavish spending on sport was expected, but the withdrawal of PIF's support has sent shockwaves throughout the industry. This move was first communicated to LIV executives on Monday, leaving many employees fearing for their jobs.The uncertainty is not limited to golf, with other sports administrators worried that similar cuts could be coming their way. LIV Golf's future is now in doubt, with the tour's chief executive, Scott O'Neil, failing to address the possibility of PIF's withdrawal in an email to staff on Wednesday evening.Sports executives outside golf have expressed concerns about the future, stating, 'We all went running to Saudi for a quick payday and are now wondering what the future holds.' The PIF's investment strategy now focuses on domestic benefits and building real businesses, with LIV Golf being seen as vulnerable due to its lack of profitability.The PIF's financial strategy for 2026-2030 emphasizes 'value realisation through performance, innovation, and private sector engagement.' While sport is not listed as one of PIF's six investment pillars, it will be included under the tourism, travel, and entertainment portfolio.The move towards privatization is evident, with PIF selling a 70% stake in Al-Hilal, one of its Saudi Pro League clubs, to a private company owned by Prince Al Waleed bin Talal Al Saud. Other sports, such as Esports, boxing, and mixed martial arts, are expected to continue receiving investment due to their popularity and potential for growth.The implications of PIF's shift in strategy extend beyond golf, with Newcastle United and other sports organizations potentially affected. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest heavily in certain sports, the future of others, like LIV Golf, remains uncertain.

LIV Golf, a breakaway tour backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), is facing an uncertain future as the fund is expected to withdraw its support in 2026. This development has significant implications for the careers of several leading golfers who made lucrative switches to LIV. The PIF's expected withdrawal could leave many golfers in career limbo, with some, such as Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm, potentially having a pathway back to the PGA Tour. However, the future for others who joined LIV is far more uncertain. The tour's executives recently attended a summit with the PIF in New York, where the financial impact of the Middle East crisis was discussed. LIV's chief executive, Scott O'Neil, has attempted to reassure staff and players that the tour's season will continue as planned, but the lack of commitment beyond 2026 has fueled speculation and concern. Since its inception in 2021, LIV is understood to have burned through more than $5bn of PIF money. Despite this, the tour has made strides towards becoming more commercially viable, attracting blue-chip sponsors such as Rolex and HSBC. The PGA Tour has smoothed a path for some LIV golfers to return, including Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed. However, the scenario for others is far less obvious, particularly for those who lack the pull to return to the PGA Tour. The DP World Tour, formerly European Tour, may benefit from LIV's potential demise, given its willingness to re-engage with LIV players. The uncertainty surrounding LIV's future also has implications for women's golf in Europe, with the PIF Saudi Ladies International and other events potentially being affected if the kingdom diverts attention away from the sport.

A Pakistani delegation headed by Army Chief General Asim Munir arrived in Tehran on Wednesday, bearing a fresh message from Washington and urging the launch of a second round of negotiations between the United States and Iran. The effort comes as the two‑week ceasefire that halted hostilities last week is set to expire on April 22, leaving a narrow window to end a war that has claimed more than 4,000 lives across the Middle East, primarily in Iran and Lebanon. The initial round of talks, held in Islamabad on April 11‑12, marked the most significant direct engagement between Washington and Tehran in decades. Mediated by Pakistan, the sessions lasted over 20 hours and featured both indirect and direct exchanges between U.S. Vice President JD Vance and senior Iranian officials led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. Despite covering core issues—nuclear programme, sanctions relief, frozen assets and control of the Strait of Hormuz—the talks concluded without a memorandum, with Vance asserting that Iran “did not accept our terms” and that the U.S. requires a “fundamental commitment” to forego nuclear weapons. President Donald Trump has described the conflict as “very close to being over” and hinted that a second round could resume within days, possibly in Islamabad. However, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is currently on a four‑day tour of Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey to rally regional backing, making a rapid return to Islamabad uncertain. U.S. officials have offered an “in‑principle” agreement to extend the ceasefire, yet a Reuters‑cited source confirmed that Washington has not formally committed to an extension. Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed optimism, stating that “there can be no negotiating with clenched fists.” Key sticking points remain: Nuclear programme: The United States and Israel demand a complete halt to uranium enrichment, accusing Iran of weaponization despite a lack of public evidence. Iran maintains its enrichment is for civilian use and cites its obligations under the 1970 Non‑Proliferation Treaty. Strait of Hormuz: One‑fifth of global oil and LNG passes through this chokepoint. Since the February strikes, shipping through the strait has dropped by 95 %. Iran permits passage for “non‑hostile” vessels and seeks the right to levy tolls, while the U.S. insists on unrestricted navigation. Lebanon/Hezbollah: Iran demands that Israel cease its offensive against Hezbollah. While Tehran claims the ceasefire covers Lebanon, both the United States and Israel reject this, and Israel continues attacks on Hezbollah positions. Complicating the diplomatic landscape, President Trump announced a naval blockade of Iranian ports, adding pressure on Tehran and potentially hindering any imminent talks. With the ceasefire deadline looming and regional actors issuing mixed signals, the prospects for a renewed U.S.–Iran dialogue hinge on whether Pakistan can secure a consensus among the parties before the window closes.

The 2027 Asian Cup draw in Saudi Arabia has been rescheduled for May 9 in Riyadh, owing to the US-Israel war on Iran that has impacted regional sporting events. The draw was initially set for last Saturday. The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced the postponement to ensure full participation of all key stakeholders and member associations. The event will take place at the historic At-Turaif District in Diriyah. Several sporting events in the region have been postponed or cancelled due to the war, which began on February 28. Saudi Arabia will host the 24-team, quadrennial continental championship from January 7 to February 5, 2027. With 23 of the 24 teams already confirmed, the draw will divide the qualified nations into six groups of four. The final qualification spot will be decided on June 4 in a playoff between Lebanon and Yemen. Defending champions Qatar, along with four-time winners Japan and fellow World Cup qualifiers South Korea, Iran, Jordan, Australia, and Uzbekistan, have already secured their places in the finals.

The future of the LIV Golf series hangs in the balance after Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) signaled a possible withdrawal of its multi‑billion‑dollar support. Executives were summoned to a high‑stakes meeting in New York this week, a development that follows growing speculation that the rebel tour could be shut down. While the fifth season’s sixth event in Mexico City is set to proceed on Thursday, the tournament is being eclipsed by reports that PIF intends to cut the tour’s funding. The tour has already faced challenges securing a merger with the PGA Tour despite a three‑year “framework agreement,” and the funding pull would exacerbate its financial strain. According to the PIF’s newly released five‑year economic strategy, the fund is prioritising sustainable domestic investments and has omitted sport from its seven key focus areas. This shift signals a move away from the “free‑spending, disruptive internationalism” that characterised the launch of LIV Golf in 2021. Since its inception, PIF has poured over $5 bn into the tour, but this year prize money and bonus payouts have already been slashed. High‑profile players such as Phil Mickelson, Dustin Johnson, Jon Rahm, Sergio García and Bryson DeChambeau initially defected from the PGA and DP World Tours, yet recent defections back to the PGA—including Brooks Koepka and Patrick Reed—highlight the tour’s precarious position. DeChambeau has yet to sign a new contract. A source familiar with the Saudi Ministry of Sports confirmed that the fund is redirecting its sports budget toward football and esports, with golf no longer a priority. The same source noted that PIF is ending its partnership with the Women’s Tennis Association, and the three‑year WTA Finals deal in Riyadh will not be renewed after its November expiry. The rumours ignited on Tuesday after journalist Ryan French posted on X that multiple sources warned of a “bombshell announcement” on LIV’s future, later suggesting the tour might be shutting down. LIV officials and players have not received any formal update. In Mexico, Sergio García told reporters they have only heard the same message from PIF chief Yasir al‑Rumayyan at the start of the year: that the project is a long‑term commitment, and that rumours are inevitable. Technical glitches, including an alleged power failure at the venue, forced the cancellation of pre‑tournament press conferences on Tuesday. Nevertheless, the pro‑am competition resumed on Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. local time, indicating that day‑to‑day operations continue despite the uncertainty. The outcome of the New York meeting could determine whether LIV Golf survives as a viable alternative to traditional tours or becomes another casualty of shifting Saudi investment priorities.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its global economic growth forecast downward to 3.1 percent this year, citing the impact of rising tensions between the United States and Iran on energy and food costs worldwide.The downgrade comes as Iran has retaliated against US and Israeli actions by closing the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for oil and gas supplies, and attacking energy infrastructure in the region. This has driven up oil prices and squeezed oil and gas supplies, affecting countries reliant on these imports.The IMF's new forecast represents a slowdown from its earlier projection of 3.3 percent growth, made before the escalation of tensions. It also marks a decline from 3.4 percent growth in the previous year. The fund warns that some regions and countries will be hit harder than others.Iran's economic outlook saw one of the largest country-level revisions, with a forecast contraction of 6.1 percent in 2026, down from an initial small growth forecast. The IMF also cut GDP growth forecasts for Saudi Arabia from 4.5 percent to 3.1 percent.The IMF's Chief Economist, Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, noted that the current hostilities in the Middle East pose significant policy trade-offs, including fighting inflation and preserving growth. The fund anticipates higher global inflation at 4.4 percent, up 0.6 percentage points from its January forecast.Experts warn that continued strains in the Strait of Hormuz could worsen inflationary pressures. For instance, a sustained $60 increase in gas prices above the average price could put the US firmly in recession territory.Oil prices have dropped on hopes of resumed talks between Iran and the US, with Brent crude futures falling to $95.02 per barrel and West Texas intermediate crude dropping to $91.84. However, prices remain much higher than before the Iran war.