Panini, the renowned sports trading card company, has struck a groundbreaking deal with LIV Golf, solidifying its entry into the world of golf collectibles. This partnership marks a significant milestone for Panini as it ventures into uncharted territory within the golf sector, securing exclusive rights to produce and distribute trading cards showcasing the talented athletes of LIV Golf.
Having a rich history in golf card production dating back to the early ’80s with Donruss brand cards, Panini’s latest collaboration with LIV Golf ushers in a new era for the company following its acquisition of Donruss. This strategic alliance will see Panini roll out a fresh line of golf trading card products designed to captivate fans and collectors globally. The product range will include physical trading cards featuring match-worn memorabilia, player autographs, and captivating visuals.
Panini is set to release the inaugural set of LIV Golf trading cards under its esteemed Prizm and Impeccable brands. Additionally, the introduction of a real-time Panini Instant card program will capture pivotal moments and highlights from LIV Golf tournaments and seasons, adding an element of excitement for collectors. Moreover, the creation of LIV Golf Team sets will offer enthusiasts a comprehensive collection of cards featuring the talented roster of players associated with the tour.
With 54 players already committed to LIV Golf for the upcoming 2024 season, the tour—which was established in 2022 with backing from Saudi Arabia—has been gaining traction with its unique format. Featuring a majority of its 14 stops outside the U.S. and incorporating a team dynamic in its 54-hole tournaments, LIV Golf has brought a fresh perspective to the sport, thereby attracting the attention of Panini.
Expressing his enthusiasm for this groundbreaking partnership, Greg Norman, Commissioner and CEO of LIV Golf, emphasized the opportunity to introduce innovative collectibles to a global audience. Norman views this collaboration as a platform to enhance the visibility of LIV Golf players and teams within the collectibles market. This sentiment was echoed by Ian Poulter, co-captain of Majesticks GC, who eagerly anticipates the collaboration with a prominent trading card brand.
Mark Warsop, CEO of Panini America, identified LIV Golf’s innovative team structure as a driving force behind the partnership, recognizing the unique collectibility aspects it offers to fans. Warsop believes that LIV Golf’s appeal to younger audiences, coupled with its roster of top-tier players, aligns seamlessly with Panini’s brand ethos, paving the way for a successful collaboration and the cultivation of a dedicated fan base.
As Panini gears up to unveil its highly anticipated golf trading card line, the roster of LIV Golf features a stellar lineup of players, including major championship victors and golfing icons. This collaboration comes at a time when Upper Deck is also set to release its latest golf set spotlighting PGA Tour stars, underscoring the growing interest in golf memorabilia and collectible cards among enthusiasts worldwide.
