Panini, a renowned name in sports trading cards, has shaken up the golf memorabilia scene by striking an exclusive deal with LIV Golf. This groundbreaking partnership between Panini and LIV Golf marks a significant move for Panini, introducing a fresh lineup of trading cards featuring LIV Golf’s talented players. The announcement of this collaboration has sent ripples of excitement through the golfing and collectibles communities, as fans eagerly anticipate the release of these unique and highly sought-after trading cards.
While Panini has a rich history of producing golf cards under the Donruss brand dating back to the early 1980s, this venture with LIV Golf represents a new chapter for the company since acquiring Donruss. By securing exclusive rights to create and distribute trading cards for LIV Golf, Panini aims to offer fans and collectors a one-of-a-kind collection that showcases the prowess and charisma of LIV Golf’s athletes.
The partnership will see Panini crafting a diverse range of golf trading card products, including physical cards featuring match-worn memorabilia and player autographs. Panini’s initial offerings under the LIV Golf umbrella will be launched through its prestigious Prizm and Impeccable brands, as well as an innovative real-time Panini Instant card program. This real-time program will capture the most thrilling moments and highlights from LIV Golf tournaments and seasons, allowing fans to own a piece of golfing history in their collections.
With 54 players already committed to LIV Golf for the 2024 season, the tour—which was established in 2022 with support from Saudi backing—presents a unique format with a majority of its events hosted outside the United States. Featuring a team-based structure in its 54-hole tournaments, LIV Golf brings a fresh perspective to the world of golf, captivating audiences worldwide. Panini has wasted no time in promoting the upcoming 2024 LIV team sets on its platform, signaling the rapid progression of this exclusive collaboration.
Greg Norman, Commissioner and CEO of LIV Golf, expressed his excitement about teaming up with Panini, emphasizing the opportunity to introduce cutting-edge products to a global base of fans and collectors. This partnership is not only a strategic move to enhance the visibility of LIV Golf players and teams in the collectibles sphere but also a testament to the rising popularity of golf trading cards. Ian Poulter, co-captain of the Majesticks GC team, shared his enthusiasm for joining forces with Panini, recognizing the brand’s esteemed reputation in the trading card industry.
Mark Warsop, CEO of Panini America, hailed the distinctive and forward-thinking nature of LIV Golf as a primary driver behind this collaboration. He highlighted the appeal of LIV Golf’s team and league structure, which presents new avenues for collectability among fans. Warsop envisions a prosperous partnership with LIV Golf, leveraging the league’s appeal to younger demographics and the caliber of its players to create an enduring connection with enthusiasts around the world.
As Panini gears up to unveil its newest line of golf trading cards, the roster of players associated with LIV Golf promises a lineup of star-studded names, including major championship winners and legendary figures in the sport. This partnership comes amidst a surge of interest in golf memorabilia and trading cards, with Upper Deck also preparing to launch a set featuring PGA Tour stars. The collaboration between Panini and LIV Golf sets the stage for an exciting chapter in golf collectibles, offering fans a unique opportunity to own pieces of golfing history through these exclusive trading cards.
