PGA-LIV peace negotiations progress as DP World Tour chief gives unusual inside update

Guy Kinnings, the chief executive for DP World Tour, has given an optimistic update after joining the latest discussions in the PGA Tour's efforts to reconcile with Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) responsible for backing LIV Golf, post the surprising framework agreement declared last June. Despite more than 15 months since the talks began, confirmation of a deal remains elusive.

Following recent chatter about strides towards a resolution buoyed by face-to-face interactions in New York between representatives from the PGA Tour and PIF delegates, Kinnings, who attended those encounters, senses a lead toward consensus.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he conveyed positive sentiments: "I'm very hopeful," before adding, "I think it's a wonderful opportunity for the game to come together and become more harmonious and global."

Kinnings elaborated on the nature of the gatherings, noting that the dialogue is not limited to American stakeholders alone but encompasses numerous parties.

"There's an ongoing process within the US between the PGA Tour and Public Investment Fund, but in the room those discussions are ourselves, DP World Tour and the Strategic Sports Group. "I think everyone has the right attitude going into that and doing the right thing for the game and taking it forward."

Kinnings has described his new responsibility as the head of the DP World Tour as an opportunity, stating: "I see it as an opportunity and, hopefully, it will be what's good for players, fans and everyone else."

Taking over from Keith Pelley this April, he voyaged back to Canada for a key role at Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment.

Launching into his leadership amidst golf's tumultuous times, Kinnings found himself issuing apologies before the BMW PGA Championship, noting the unfortunate overlap with the 9/11 anniversaries. Kinnings remarked on the contentious timing, explaining that external forces scheduled the PGA Tour's meeting without considering the significance of the date involved.

The tragic event of 9/11 saw 15 attackers of the 19 hail from Saudi Arabia, though the Kingdom has staunchly refuted any claims of participation. Kinnings responded to the controversy stating: "No, absolutely right. The point is that, unfortunately, we didn't set the time frame and we didn't set the agenda," while emphasizing his profound respect for the victims' families and concluding with a heartfelt reflection on his attendance at memorials, solidifying his empathy and sympathy for those affected.

"There was no intent in the meeting to show any disrespect - I don't think it was intentional at all. The intention was to do the right thing for the sport but if anyone felt upset by that, then of course I apologise to them because I only feel deepest sympathy to those people."