Panini, renowned in the realm of sports trading cards, has struck a groundbreaking partnership with LIV Golf, shaking up the collectibles world. This exclusive deal grants Panini the rights to design and distribute trading cards featuring LIV Golf’s players. While Panini has a history of producing golf cards under the Donruss brand since the early ’80s, this collaboration marks a new chapter since Panini acquired Donruss.
The partnership heralds the development of a whole new line of golf trading card products. Panini aims to offer something truly distinct to fans and collectors across the globe. The initial offerings will include physical trading cards, featuring match-worn memorabilia and player autographs. Notably, the first LIV Golf trading cards will debut under Panini’s Prizm and Impeccable brands. Additionally, a real-time Panini Instant card program will capture exciting highlights and memorable moments from tournaments and seasons, complemented by LIV Golf Team sets.
LIV Golf, founded in 2022 and supported by Saudi Arabian backing, boasts 54 players lined up for 2024. The tour, spanning 14 stops outside the U.S., introduces a team dynamic to its 54-hole tournaments. Panini has wasted no time, already promoting the 2024 LIV team sets on its website, signaling a swift and robust start to this innovative partnership.
Greg Norman, Commissioner, and CEO of LIV Golf, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with Panini. Norman sees this as a golden opportunity to introduce cutting-edge products to a worldwide audience of fans and collectors. The partnership aims to amplify the profiles of LIV Golf players and teams in the collectibles space. Majesticks GC co-captain Ian Poulter echoed this sentiment, sharing his excitement at aligning with a top trading card brand.
Mark Warsop, CEO of Panini America, emphasized the novel and inventive format of LIV Golf as a pivotal factor in forging this partnership. Warsop believes that the team and league structure of LIV Golf offers fresh dimensions for collection enthusiasts. The CEO pinpointed LIV Golf’s appeal to younger audiences, coupled with its roster of top-tier players, as a seamless fit for Panini’s brand. This alignment sets the stage for a prosperous collaboration, aiming to build a robust and devoted fan base.
As the launch of this exciting line draws near, LIV Golf features a roster brimming with notable players, including major championship winners and golf legends. This promises a compelling product range for both avid golf enthusiasts and dedicated collectors. The partnership with LIV Golf comes at a time when Upper Deck is also gearing up to unveil its latest golf set spotlighting PGA Tour stars, underscoring the burgeoning interest in golf memorabilia and trading cards.
