FILE - Signage for LIV Golf is displayed during the pro-am round of the Bedminster Invitational LIV Golf tournament, July 28, 2022, in Bedminster, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)

LIV Golf, the Saudi-funded league known for its 54-hole events with shotgun starts, is expanding to 72 holes for the 2026 season and adding a few extra qualifying spots in a move that could boost its bid to be recognized by the Official World Golf Ranking.

The name of the league — the roman numeral for 54 — was built around its faster pace over three rounds instead of the traditional four on most other circuits.

The shotgun start will remain for a league that is likely to see 57 players. LIV previously said it would take the leading two available players from the International Series ranking on the Asian Tour, and two players from the qualifying tournament in January.

Scott O'Neil, the LIV Golf CEO, did not mention the OWGR in the announcement Tuesday, Nov. 4, saying only the move to 72 holes marks a “pivotal new chapter” that strengthens the league and challenges the players.

“The most successful leagues around the world ... continue to innovate and evolve their product, and as an emerging league, we are no different,” O'Neil said. "LIV Golf will always have an eye towards progress that acts in the best interest of LIV Golf and in the best interest of the sport.”

Bryson DeChambeau, the two-time U.S.